Nammoura
Nammoura
Here is a traditional recipe for Nammoura (also known as Basbousa), a delicious Lebanese semolina cake soaked in fragrant syrup.
6-8 people
Ingredients
- For the batter:
- 2 cups medium semolina (about 320 g)
- 1 cup sugar (about 200 g)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (about 250 g)
- ½ cup melted butter (about 120 g)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp tahini (to grease the pan)
- For the syrup:
- 1 cup sugar (200 g)
- ½ cup water (125 ml)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp orange blossom water or rose water (optional but traditional)
- For decoration:
- Whole or slivered almonds (optional)
Preparation
- Make the syrup: Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then add lemon juice. Let simmer over low heat for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, add orange blossom or rose water, and let cool.
- Prepare the batter: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a square or rectangular baking dish (20x20 cm or similar) with tahini. In a large bowl, mix semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, and baking powder until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Score the surface into squares or diamonds and place an almond in the center of each piece. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Finish: Once out of the oven, immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot cake. Let the cake absorb the syrup and cool before cutting and serving.
