It is a traditional Egyptian bread pudding that is easy to make and is perfect for any occasion. Egypt is a country that has a rich history and culinary culture. One of the things that are famous for this land is Egyptian desserts. The country offers a wide range of desserts that are unique in taste and preparation. One of the delicious desserts is Umm Ali.
Origin and History of Umm Ali
Umm Ali, also known as Om Ali, is a traditional Egyptian dessert that dates back to the medieval period when Egypt was ruled by the Mamluks. According to the legend, the dessert was named after the wife of a nobleman who lived in the 13th century. After her husband's death, she became the ruler of Egypt, and as a tribute to her people, she ordered the creation of this sweet dish and distributed it among the citizens of her land.
The dessert has since become a popular Egyptian treat that is served during special occasions and celebrations. The dish is so widespread that it has variations in its recipe and name across different regions of Egypt, such as Ghorayebah, Samali, Madameir and Feteer.
Umm Ali is mainly made of bread, milk, sugar and nuts. But it can have several variations by including raisins, pistachios, coconut, and other ingredients. Its mouth-watering taste and easy-to-make recipe have made it a popular dessert in almost every Egyptian household.
In Ramadan, Umm Ali has become a staple dessert as it is served after Iftar, the breaking of the day-long fast. It is also a popular dessert to be served during special events such as weddings and birthdays. Umm Ali has spread across the world, and with time many countries and families have adapted their own version of this fabulous dessert.
In conclusion, Umm Ali is an ancient and traditional Egyptian dessert with a long and unique history. Through the passing years, it has become an essential part of Egyptian cuisine, and its delicious taste and easy recipe have made it popular in many countries around the world.
How to Make Umm Ali Pudding
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 6 croissants or 6 sheets of store-bought puff pastry
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of unsalted pistachios, chopped
- 1/2 cup of chopped unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup of raisins
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium pot, heat the milk, cream, and sugar until it comes to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and remove from heat.
3. In a separate bowl, tear the croissants into small pieces or cut the puff pastry into 2 inch squares. Add the croissants or pieces of puff pastry to the baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the croissants or puff pastry, making sure to soak the bread well. Let the bread soak up the milk mixture for about 10 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the raisins, pistachios, walnuts, and coconut flakes over the top of the bread and milk mixture.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract, cinnamon powder, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the bread and nuts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread has soaked up all the liquid.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Variations of Umm Ali
Umm Ali is not only delicious but also a versatile dessert. Here are some variations of Umm Ali that you can try:
1. Chocolate Umm Ali: Add semisweet chocolate chips to the milk mixture and stir until melted. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
2. Coconut Umm Ali: Replace the almonds with shredded coconut and add coconut milk for a tropical twist.
3. Pistachio Umm Ali: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the pudding for added crunch and nuttiness.
4. Fruit Umm Ali: Add diced fruits such as apples, pears, or bananas to the bread pudding for a fruity flavor.
5. Nutella Umm Ali: Mix Nutella into the milk mixture for a chocolate-hazelnut flavor. Top with whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts.
There are endless possibilities to modify Umm Ali, depending on your preference. So, don't be afraid to experiment and create your own unique variation of this delicious Egyptian dessert.
Healthy Benefits of Umm Ali
While Umm Ali is not typically thought of as a healthy dessert, it does offer some nutritional benefits, especially if prepared with some modifications. Here are some potential health benefits of Umm Ali:
1. Good source of calcium: Umm Ali contains milk and cream, which are high in calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
2. Rich in protein: Milk is also a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
3. Fiber: If made with whole-grain pastry or croissants, Umm Ali can provide a decent amount of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can also help to regulate blood sugar levels.
4. Healthy fats: Almonds and coconut used as toppings in Umm Ali are good sources of healthy fats, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
However, it is important to note that Umm Ali is still an indulgent treat and should be consumed in moderation, especially if it is prepared with a lot of sugar. Nevertheless, making some modifications can make Umm Ali a healthier option that can still satisfy your sweet tooth.
Conclusion:
Umm Ali is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is a staple in many Egyptian households. The dish is a perfect example that shows how Egyptian culture and culinary traditions combine to create a unique taste combination. With its creamy milk base and layers of nuts and pastry, Umm Ali is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
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