#hareeseh

[morethansalad]

Vegan Hareeseh / Basbousa / Namoura

[zestedlifestyle]

Best Middle Eastern Desserts to Try During Ramadan

Ramadan is a time of reflection, togetherness, and of course, delicious food that brings families together. After a long day of fasting, nothing is more satisfying than indulging in rich, flavorful desserts that have been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. From flaky pastries soaked in syrup to creamy puddings infused with fragrant spices, these desserts not only provide a sweet ending to Iftar but also hold deep cultural significance.

The Role of Desserts in Ramadan Traditions

During Ramadan, desserts play a crucial role in celebrations and gatherings. After breaking the fast with dates and water, families enjoy a hearty Iftar meal followed by traditional sweets, often paired with Arabic coffee or mint tea. These decadent treats offer the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and warmth, making them a must-have during the holy month.

Here are some of the best Middle Eastern desserts you must try this Ramadan:

1. Kunafa – The Queen of Middle Eastern Sweets

One of the most iconic desserts during Ramadan is Kunafa—a crispy, golden pastry made from shredded phyllo dough, filled with sweet cheese or cream, and soaked in sugar syrup. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and gooey filling makes it an irresistible treat.

Kunafa is best enjoyed warm, often topped with crushed pistachios for an extra layer of flavor. If you're looking for the best Kunafa in the UAE, explore authentic Arabic sweets and indulge in a taste of tradition.

2. Baklava – The Timeless Layered Delight

Another Ramadan favorite is Baklava, a delicate pastry made with thin layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey or sugar syrup. This buttery, flaky dessert is enjoyed across the Middle East and beyond, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch.

Baklava comes in many variations—some with walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, while others feature chocolate or orange zest for a modern twist. It’s often served in small diamond-shaped pieces, making it easy to share during family gatherings.

3. Basbousa – A Semolina Cake with a Syrupy Touch

Basbousa, also known as Hareeseh or Revani, is a soft and moist semolina cake sweetened with rose water or orange blossom syrup. The cake is often garnished with almonds or coconut flakes, giving it a subtle yet delightful crunch.

This dessert is light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for those who prefer a mildly sweet treat after Iftar.

4. Qatayef – The Festive Pancakes of Ramadan

Qatayef is a popular Ramadan dessert that resembles mini stuffed pancakes. These fluffy treats are typically filled with sweet cheese, nuts, or cream, then fried or baked before being drizzled with syrup.

Qatayef is often prepared at home or bought fresh from bakeries, as it is a symbolic dessert that brings families together during Ramadan.

5. Maamoul – The Perfect Date-Filled Cookie

Maamoul is a buttery shortbread cookie filled with dates, walnuts, or pistachios, often shaped into intricate designs. These delicate treats are especially popular during Eid celebrations, marking the end of Ramadan.

The rich, crumbly texture and natural sweetness from the dates make Maamoul a favorite across generations.

6. Rice Pudding – A Creamy Classic

For those who love creamy and comforting desserts, Middle Eastern rice pudding (Roz Bel Laban) is a must-try. Made with milk, rice, sugar, and a hint of cardamom or cinnamon, this dessert is often topped with nuts or dried fruits for added richness.

It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan is a time of celebration and togetherness, and no meal is complete without a sweet ending. Whether it’s the crispy Kunafa, syrupy Baklava, or rich Maamoul cookies, Middle Eastern desserts offer a blend of tradition, flavor, and nostalgia.

For those looking to experience the best Arabic sweets in the UAE, check out this authentic selection of Ramadan desserts and make your Iftar even more special.

[xasha777]

In the distant future, humanity had reached the stars, establishing colonies on distant planets and moons. Amidst this era of expansion and discovery, a figure from ancient history resurfaced, not as a memory, but as a living, breathing entity. This figure was Zhao Defang, a prince from the Song Dynasty, mysteriously brought to the future through a tear in the fabric of time.

The woman in the image, Lady Li-Mei, was the guardian of the ancient artifacts that had once belonged to Zhao Defang. Her flowing black hair and regal attire were not just a reflection of her status but also of her deep connection to the past. Lady Li-Mei had devoted her life to understanding the mysteries of time travel, and her work had led her to Zhao Defang.

Zhao Defang, once a prominent figure in Chinese history, now found himself in a world of advanced technology and interstellar travel. Confused and disoriented, he sought solace in the familiar presence of Lady Li-Mei, who had become his guide and protector in this new era.

Lady Li-Mei's study was adorned with ancient artifacts and futuristic technology, a blend of past and future. It was here, in the dim glow of candlelight, that Zhao Defang began to understand the implications of his journey through time. His knowledge of ancient strategies and philosophies was now a priceless asset in the complex political landscape of the interstellar colonies.

As the guardian of his legacy, Lady Li-Mei not only protected Zhao Defang but also helped him adapt to the advanced society. Together, they navigated the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that defined the colonies. Zhao Defang's wisdom and Lady Li-Mei's expertise in technology made them a formidable team.

Their journey took them to various planets, where they encountered diverse cultures and faced numerous challenges. From thwarting an assassination plot on the moon of Titan to negotiating a peace treaty on the desert planet of Aridara, their adventures were filled with danger and intrigue.

Throughout their travels, Zhao Defang and Lady Li-Mei developed a deep bond, transcending time and space. They became symbols of unity, showing that the wisdom of the past and the innovations of the future could coexist harmoniously.

As they continued their journey, Zhao Defang often pondered the nature of his existence. He wondered if he would ever return to his own time or if his destiny was now intertwined with the stars. Lady Li-Mei, with her unwavering loyalty and intelligence, assured him that no matter where or when they were, they would face the future together.

In the end, Zhao Defang's journey through time was not just a personal odyssey but a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity. His story, preserved by Lady Li-Mei, became a legend, inspiring future generations to embrace both their history and their potential among the stars.

[hyakqatar]

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: A Journey Through the Delightful World of Arabic Sweets

Arabic cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors and ingredients, and it's not just about delicious dishes. The Middle East is also renowned for its exquisite and diverse range of sweets that have been delighting palates for centuries. These treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. In this article, we'll take you on a delectable journey through the enchanting world of Arabic sweets.

Baklava: Layers of Sweet Bliss

Baklava is perhaps the most famous Arabic sweet, known for its intricate layers of phyllo pastry, nuts, and aromatic spices. The pastry is drenched in a fragrant syrup, which makes each bite a delightful combination of crunchy and sticky, sweet and nutty. Variations of baklava can be found throughout the Middle East, each with its own unique twist.

Kunafa: A Sweet Sensation

Kunafa is another Arabic dessert that deserves the spotlight. It consists of thin, vermicelli-like pastry strands soaked in sugar-based syrup, often layered with cheese, cream, or nuts. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, creamy interior is a flavor explosion that's truly unforgettable.

Ma'amoul: Bite-sized Sweet Perfection

Ma'amoul is small, delicate, shortbread-like cookies filled with a variety of sweet fillings such as dates, figs, or nuts. These little gems are traditionally shaped using intricately designed wooden molds, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing. Ma'amoul is often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals.

Basbousa: A Semolina Sweet Delight

Basbousa, also known as Revani or Hareeseh, is a popular semolina cake drenched in fragrant sugar syrup. It's often adorned with almonds, coconut flakes, or a dusting of powdered sugar. The result is a moist and aromatic dessert that's both comforting and heavenly.

Qatayef: Arabic Pancakes with a Twist

Qatayef is a popular dessert during the holy month of Ramadan. These small, folded pancakes can be filled with various sweet fillings, such as cheese, nuts, or a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. They are then either baked or fried to crispy perfection, offering a delectable balance of textures and flavors.

Aish El Saraya: The Queen of Arabic Puddings

Aish El Saraya is a luscious Lebanese dessert that combines the goodness of creamy custard and soft, spongy cake. It's typically topped with a generous layer of rose or orange blossom water-infused sugar syrup, making it an exquisite treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Atayef: The Stuffed Mini Pancakes

Atayef is small, stuffed pancakes that are typically folded into a half-moon shape and filled with a mixture of nuts or sweet cheese. They can be served both fried or baked and are enjoyed throughout the year but are especially popular during the month of Ramadan.

Rahat Al Hulqoum: A Chewy Delight

Rahat Al Hulqoum, commonly known as Turkish Delight, is a chewy, sweet confectionery made from starch and sugar, often flavored with rosewater, orange blossom water, or various fruit flavors. These colorful, bite-sized morsels are a sweet treat that provides a delightful explosion of flavors with every bite.

Arabic sweets not only captivate the taste buds but also serve as a delightful reminder of the rich history and culture of the Middle East. Each sweet has a story to tell, a tradition to uphold, and a unique flavor profile that is bound to leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to indulge in it. So, if you ever have a sweet tooth, take a moment to explore the captivating world of Arabic sweets in Qatar. Satisfy your cravings and treat your taste buds to an enchanting realm of sweet sensations.

[arabella-au]

Sweet Endings: Irresistible Middle Eastern Dessert Recipes from Sydney

Middle Eastern desserts are an enchanting culmination of centuries-old culinary traditions that celebrate the region's rich heritage. Bursting with flavours and aromas, these sweet treats have captivated dessert enthusiasts worldwide. Among the myriad of delightful Middle Eastern desserts, the ones served at the charming restaurants in Sydney stand out for their authenticity and flavours. In this comprehensive guide, we take you on a delectable journey through some of the most irresistible Middle Eastern dessert recipes that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.

Baklava: A Nutty Indulgence

Baklava, the crown jewel of Middle Eastern desserts, is a timeless masterpiece that delights the senses. This heavenly pastry is a perfect harmony of flaky layers of paper-thin filo dough, generously brushed with butter and adorned with a nutty filling. The most common nuts used in baklava are walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, each contributing its unique texture and taste.

To elevate the experience, the baklava is bathed in a luscious sugar syrup infused with fragrant rosewater or orange blossom water. This infusion adds a delightful floral note that perfectly balances the sweetness. Middle Eastern restaurants in Sydney take great pride in their baklava, showcasing the artistry and skill required to create this exquisite dessert.

Kunafa: Creamy and Cheesy

Kunafa, also known as Knafeh, is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that seduces dessert enthusiasts with its captivating creaminess. The star of this dessert is the shredded kataifi pastry, which cradles a sumptuous filling of sweetened cheese, such as ricotta or akawie. The marriage of the crispy pastry with the creamy cheese filling creates a mesmerising textural contrast.

The kunafa is then lovingly soaked in a luxurious sugar syrup infused with either orange blossom or rosewater, rendering it irresistible to the senses. Middle Eastern restaurant Sydney skilfully craft this dessert, ensuring a perfect balance of flavours and textures, leaving patrons yearning for a second helping.

Basbousa: A Semolina Treat

Basbousa, also known as Revani or Hareeseh, is a beloved Middle Eastern semolina cake that evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. This moist and delicate cake is crafted with a blend of semolina, sugar, yoghurt, and butter, making it a delightful gluten-free option.

The charm of Basbousa lies in its syrup-drenched texture, courtesy of a fragrant sugar syrup infused with rosewater or orange blossom water. The symphony of flavours between the cake's crumb and the aromatic syrup ensures that each bite is a moment of pure indulgence. At Middle Eastern restaurants in Sydney, Basbousa reigns supreme, cherished by both locals and visitors alike.

Halawet el Jibn: Sweet Cheese Rolls

Halawet el Jibn, also known as Halawet el Jeben or Lebanese Nights, is a heavenly treat that beckons dessert connoisseurs with its captivating taste. These delicate cheese rolls are made from a delightful mixture of sweetened cheese, semolina, and a hint of rosewater.

Once rolled and shaped, these delectable cheese rolls are adorned with a drizzle of sugar syrup and a sprinkle of ground pistachios, adding an extra layer of richness to the dessert. Middle Eastern restaurants in Sydney serve Halawet el Jibn with utmost pride, savouring the delightful combination of sweet and savoury flavours that leave an indelible mark on the palate.

Atayef: Heavenly Stuffed Pancakes

Atayef, a delicacy popular during festive seasons and Ramadan, is a true embodiment of Middle Eastern culinary artistry. These delightful stuffed pancakes are small wonders filled with either sweet cheese or a mixture of chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon.

After filling, the pancakes are folded into half-moon shapes and either baked or fried until golden brown. The result is a heavenly combination of soft, fluffy pancakes with a rich, nutty or cheesy centre. Middle Eastern restaurants in Sydney embrace Atayef as a symbol of tradition and celebration, delighting their patrons during special occasions.

When dining at Middle Eastern restaurants in Sydney, make sure to leave room for dessert. The sweet endings of Middle Eastern cuisine are a treasure trove of flavours, aromas, and textures, leaving diners with unforgettable memories. From the nutty euphoria of baklava to the creamy delights of kunafa and the aromatic allure of Basbousa, each dessert tells a unique story of Middle Eastern heritage and culture.

[meanieyards]

anyway my biggest headcanon is that meliorn always feeds the people he knows and its always bomb ass Lebanese/Arab food too. he’s fed raphael and magnus kubbeh. he’s given izzy warak dawali and luke’s favourite food is meliorns home made kofta. he and jace always dine on shish tawook and one time he even gave clary some sujuk. alec loves his bastirma and he makes the best surar ever too !!!! he even once brought some great msakhan to a shadowhunter/downworlder meeting when he decided to try cooking Palestinian food. lets not forget the desserts !! he makes osmalieh and knafeh and hareeseh and rice pudding too

[cestlavielily]

Three Delights of Jordan

Unattained mosques, disputed lands, unconquered coasts, plenitude of cultural and religious sites, soaking food… All these symbols are portrayed in one’s mind when hearing the name Middle East…

When talking about a country in Middle East, it comes with no surprise that cuisine and food will be in the core of attention. In this matter, Jordan is not an exception. As a country with rich culture and traditions, Jordan is luring travellers from all over the world with its many pearls… Let me skip for now the renowned archaeological site Petra, Jordan’s religious value and have a glance at this country through the lens of senses. Here are three of the major delights that will make you sink deeper into the secrecy of Arabic world:  

1.    Food – one of the greatest delights of life. With its rich cuisine, Jordan is an ultimate paradise for culinary travellers. In line with its spiritual value, this country will satisfy any food caprice one might have. There is so much to see in Jordan, but more essentially there is so much to Taste in Jordan. Leaving this country with a sense of hunger is a real “crime”, unless you are planning to return and fuel your culinary lust.  

In general, Jordanians love to eat, but they pay special attention to the sweets and it is unacceptable to finish a meal without pampering the senses with some kind of syrupy sweets as a final note. According to Jordanians, if you really want to delve deep into their endless love towards sweets, you have to go back in time to the period of Ottoman Empire.

An array of sweets presented in fascinating world of Jordanian culinary delights will incite your senses to stay awake with a lingering promise of more to come. Hareeseh, Knafeh, Baklava, thin rolls resembling bird nests, phyllo pastries are there to charm you endlessly. When in Jordan, make sure to try Knafeh: a truly mouth-watering dessert made of cheese and sweet sugar-based syrup. The cheese inside this sweet shall not be salty in order to make a harmonious combination of tastes. The special topping that makes Kanafeh intriguingly delicate is the rosewater sprinkled on the whole surface of the pastry. Kanafeh is my beloved dessert I tasted in Jordan and you should also give it a try when visiting this country.

 2.  Dead Sea has long been a place to recharge one’s mind and make a positive impact on a well-being as a whole. With its unsurpassed healing properties, the Dead Sea is where travellers from any corner of the Earth go for spa delights. Unlike its name, when taking a swim and trying on a mud from a Dead Sea, you will go back home entirely rejuvenated and revived. According to historians, the King Herod was seeking relief to his body pain in the hot springs of the Dead Sea.

     3. Red Sea

And again the Sea… While the Dead Sea area is mostly used for therapeutic and spa purposes, an influential part of coastal tourism in Jordan is centred along the Red Sea. Yet, the Red Sea has its pearls making it one of the most desired water areas for diving. Exploring the coral reefs of the Red Sea and plunging into the magic of underwater world is an ultimate delight…

Settled at the confluence of three continents (Africa, Asia and Europe) at the edge of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba, the port and city Aqaba will make your heart sing. For those seeking azure-blue beaches with a year-round sun, this is a place to be…  

Photo Credits:

Lilit Mkrtchyan

By elif ayse (originally posted to Flickr as künefe...) [CC BY 2.0],

via Wikimedia Commons

[usnewsaggregator-blog]

Op-Ed Contributor: Why Won’t Israel Let Me Mourn My Father?

New Post has been published on http://usnewsaggregator.com/op-ed-contributor-why-wont-israel-let-me-mourn-my-father/

Op-Ed Contributor: Why Won’t Israel Let Me Mourn My Father?

My latest visit was different. This time, Israeli officials were mostly interested in my work, even though I made it clear that my partner, Alli McCracken, and I were traveling in our personal capacity to mourn my father and visit my family.

I’m the Middle East and North Africa advocacy director for the human rights organization Amnesty International U.S.A. In that capacity, I have played a leading role in a new campaign that seemed to get the Israeli border guards’ attention, a campaign calling on governments to ban goods from Israeli settlements.

The officials who questioned me asked why Amnesty has a problem with Israel. I kept trying to steer the conversation back to my dad’s memorial service, but they insisted on discussing the organization’s work. Alli, who also works for Amnesty International, was questioned for a long time, too. They took her phone and went through her text messages.

After hours of back and forth, I was informed that I was being denied entry for reasons of “public order” and — believe it or not — “the prevention of illegal immigration.” I called the American Consulate General in Jerusalem and was told that there was nothing the officials there could do to help.

Based on the questions I was asked, I had no doubt that this denial of entry was retaliation for my work. Amnesty International believes Israel’s settlement enterprise amounts to a war crime. Under international law, governments have an obligation not to recognize or assist “illegal situations.” That’s why Amnesty is calling on governments across the world, including the United States, to uphold that law and not allow Israeli businesses to profit from an illegal occupation.

Israel seems to have denied me entry under legislation passed in March that bans entry to Israel for noncitizens who knowingly issue “a public call for boycotting Israel.” This law pertains not only to the boycott of goods produced in Israel proper but also to goods produced in settlements. Although Amnesty International calls for a government ban on importing those goods — not a consumer boycott — the Israeli government seems to treat it the same way.

Could my teenage dad fleeing his hometown half a century ago have imagined this happening to his son? I wanted to visit his old school and my grandparents’ old house. I wanted to touch the olive trees he climbed as little boy, and eat hareeseh, my favorite Palestinian dessert made of semolina and coconut, from the shop in central Jenin. Does it even exist anymore?

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I wasn’t just upset about missing my dad’s memorial service. Before I left the United States, I told my 4-year-old son that I was going on a trip because his grandpa had died. He cried a lot. Then he asked me if we could plant his grandfather back in earth like a plant and wait until he grows back. I told him we couldn’t. He said he would just use his imagination. I tried to use my imagination while I was being sent back from the border crossing — I tried to imagine my family’s land that I couldn’t plant my father back into.

When I returned home, my son asked me about the trip, and I had to tell him that I wasn’t able to go. He looked confused. I couldn’t explain the details — my work, Israel’s settlements and the occupation, its unjust laws that stifle civil society. I know I’ll have to tell him about all that someday.

It won’t be an easy story to tell, not only because of the Israeli government’s actions but also because of the United States government’s lack of action. Although I’ve tried to follow up, my own government has not stepped in to protect my right to equal treatment, and yet continues to help sustain illegal settlements by allowing the flood of Israeli goods into American markets.

Israel must respect my right, and the rights of others, to engage in peaceful human rights work without fear of reprisal. Whether or not the Israeli government agrees with my work — and, of course, I know it doesn’t — I still should have been able to take part in those most human of activities: mourning my father and celebrating his life.

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