Author: suerady06

Roasted Vegetables with Freekah

Roasted Vegetables with Freekah

Spiced Roasted Vegetables with Freekah. Nutty, protein-rich freekah paired with deeply caramelised, spice-roasted vegetables—this is a hearty, wholesome dish that’s as satisfying as it is vibrant.

Red Pepper Chicken

Red Pepper Chicken

Red Pepper Chicken with Anise and Ginger is a dish that demands attention – vibrant in colour, rich in aroma and unforgettable on the palate.

Cauliflower sandwich

Cauliflower sandwich

cauliflower sandwich is an incredibly tasty snack – honestly!

Cauliflower sandwich, much to my surprise, is an incredibly tasty snack. Absolutely packed with flavour. It truly celebrates the cauliflower and is a joy to have.

initially I wasn’t sold on the idea

When I was first offered a snack of a cauliflower sandwich I wasn’t totally taken by the idea to be honest.

All I could think was “Really???”

But then I was thinking of cauliflower in the English sense i.e. a boiled to death, a kind-of insipid tasting vegetable which would do nothing to add flavour or texture but instead just make the bread a bit sad and soggy. So, sadly there was nothing there to inspire me.

But I accepted any way just to be polite.  To my surprise, what I was handed was a plate with a sandwich made with warm pita bread, that in itself changed the game-play.  It had been sliced open to create a pocket and slotted inside was florets of crispy, spiced cauliflower. 

the smell of the herbs and spices in the cauliflower sandwich were wonderful

It smelled fantastic.  The cauliflower was coated in batter, that had been seasoned with herbs and spices.  It was tender on the inside with a slight bite and crispy and gorgeous on the outside having been coated in this amazing spiced batter. The smell from the spices filled the air. It was such a surprise nothing like what I had imagined.

the cauliflower sandwich was packed with wonderful flavours

Packed in alongside the cauliflower was a little fresh salad made with chopped fresh herbs and fresh salad vegetables bursting with flavour.  This wonderful masterpiece was then finished off with fresh, lemony tahini dressing drizzled over it.  I was stunned!  Great flavours, great texture and just a truly brilliant snack.

If you’d like to try cauliflower sandwich hit the link below for the cauliflower fritters recipe.

Baklava

Baklava

Baklava is one of the easiest sweets you could ever make. You just buy the filo pastry, ready to use. You just need to be able to drizzle, sprinkle and layer.

Gorgeously sweet & buttery, micro-thin crispy pastry, layered with delicious nuts makes Baklava a firm favourite.

Ghorayebah

Ghorayebah

These traditional Middle Eastern shortbread biscuits have a delicate, crumbly texture that dissolves in your mouth. Try this amazing recipe with just 3 ingredients.

Basbousa

Basbousa

Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern semolina cake known for its rich, moist texture and delicate sweetness.

Infused with coconut and bathed in a fragrant sugar syrup, this dessert is a staple at family gatherings, celebrations, and tea-time indulgences.

Its simplicity and irresistible flavour make it a beloved treat across many cultures. Whether enjoyed with mint tea, Arabic coffee, or a dollop of whipped cream, basbousa is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups semolina
  • 1 cup desiccated coconut
  • 3/4 cup caster sugar
  • 1/2 cup plain flour
  • 1 tspn baking powder
  • 1 cup thick yoghurt (200g)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk (as needed for consistency)
  • 25 blanched almond halves

For the Syrup:

  • 1 1/4 cups sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 12″ x 10″ baking tray.
  2. Make the Syrup:
    • In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
    • Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 15 minutes stirring frequently.
    • Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Cake Batter:
    • In a large bowl, mix semolina, coconut, sugar, flour and baking powder.
    • Add yoghurt, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
    • If the mixture is too thick, add up to 1/4 cup milk gradually, a spoon at a time, until a thick but pourable consistency is reached.
  4. Shape and Bake:
    • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking tray and smooth the surface.
    • Using a sharp knife, score the batter into diamond or square shapes.
    • Place half an almond in the center of each piece.
    • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
  5. Add the Syrup:
    • While the cake is still hot, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the entire surface.
    • Let the cake absorb the syrup and cool completely before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy basbousa with mint tea or Arabic coffee, or serve as a dessert with whipped cream.

Tips:

  • Allow the cake to rest for a few hours after adding the syrup for the best texture.

Baklava Boukage

Baklava Boukage

Baklava Boukage is a delightful pastry; a variation of classic baklava—simpler to prepare yet equally delicious. Try this easy recipe and be delighted with the result.

Rice Pudding

Rice Pudding

This is Rice Pudding like you’ve never tasted before: A delicate and refreshing twist on a classic dessert, this Chilled Rose-Scented Rice Pudding is infused with the subtle floral notes of rose water and boasts a silky, creamy texture.

Ramadan Sohoor

Ramadan Sohoor

Ramadan Sohoor is one of the most important meals for those fasting during Ramadan.

Eaten just before sunrise, it provides essential nourishment and energy to sustain those Fasting throughout the day.

This pre-dawn meal helps prepare the body and mind for the fast ahead, ensuring better endurance and well-being.”

Ramadan is one of the most significant and sacred months in the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting- fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam – while fostering spirituality, self-discipline, gratitude, and empathy.

The Essence of Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan takes place from sunrise to sunset. During these hours, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations. Beyond physical restraint, fasting encourages mindfulness, patience, and self-reflection.

sunrise
Fasting begins at sunrise and continues until sunset

Ramadan is a Month of Celebration and Giving

lamps, lights, lighting, fairy lights, light, bright, yellow, fairy lights, fairy lights, fairy lights, fairy lights, fairy lights, bright

Ramadan is a time of joy and unity. Streets are adorned with colorful festoon lights, creating a festive atmosphere that brings families and communities together.

Before the fasting day begins, families wake early for Sohoor, a nutritious pre-dawn meal designed to sustain them throughout the day. A well-balanced Sohoor includes high-protein and healthy fat-rich foods for lasting energy, while avoiding excessive salt to prevent thirst and minimizing sugar to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

In Egypt, Sohoor resembles a mezze-style breakfast, consisting of a variety of delicious and nourishing dishes. A typical Egyptian Sohoor includes:

  • Ful Medames (Stewed Fava Beans)
  • Taameya (Falafel)
  • Boiled Eggs or Shakshuka
  • Cheese
  • Flatbreads
  • Salata Baladi (Herb Salad)
  • Hummus
  • Pickles
  • Olives
  • Yoghurt
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Dates
  • Nuts

Try some of our Featured Recipes

To help you prepare a traditional Egyptian Sohoor, our featured recipes include:

Ful Medames
Ful Medames one of Egypt’s favourite breakfasts
falafel

Falafel the most popular street food in Egypt

Salata baladi
Salata Baladi – Herb salad – Delicious and nutritious
shakshuka - eggs poached in a delicious tomato sauce
Shakshuka – poached eggs Egyptian style

Tasty pickles

All eaten with delicious, warm flatbreads.

Whether you’re observing Ramadan or simply exploring Middle Eastern cuisine, these dishes offer a taste of tradition and nourishment. May this Holy month bring peace, reflection, and togetherness to all who celebrate.

Ramadan Sweet Treats

Ramadan Sweet Treats

Ramadan Sweet Treats are very much part of the Ramadan celebrations. In Egypt, the arrival of Ramadan brings not only a spiritual atmosphere but also the irresistible aroma of sweet treats wafting through homes and bustling streets. In the evenings, street vendors line the roads