Basbousa

Basbousa is an Egyptian-inspired delicious, syrup-soaked vermicelli cake, which is also popular in other countries. The semolina batter is cooked on a sheet pan, flavored with citrus flower water, rose water, or simple syrup, then chopped into diamond (lozenge) or square forms. This delicious dish is found across most of the ancient Ottoman Empire's territory, and especially in Syria.

Food has a significant role in Syrian culture, both as tradition and as a source of hospitality. That is why Basbousa has been Syrians’ favorite dessert for decades. It's a classic Syrian delicacy that is moist, sticky, sweet, and incredibly delectable.

In Syria, Basbousa is prepared with almonds, raw coconut, self-rising wheat, plain yogurt, and, of course, caster sugar. All of these ingredients are combined with butter and baked for 35-40 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. When the cake is still warm, a sugar syrup mixed with granulated sugar, lemons and rose/orange floral water is drizzled over it. Not only does the sugar syrup sweeten the cake, but it also gives the overall dish some moisture and a sticky feel.