Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Semolina Base:
Semolina: 1 cup
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup
Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup
Plain Yogurt: 1/2 cup
Orange Blossom Water: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
Milk: 2 cups
Almonds or Pistachios (optional): For garnish
For the Sugar Syrup:
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
Water: 1 cup
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
Tools You’ll Need:
Heavy-Bottomed Pan: For cooking the semolina base.
Saucepan: For making the sugar syrup.
Whisk and Spoon: For stirring and mixing.
Baking Dish: To shape and serve the Qashtalia.
Knife: For slicing and serving.
Instructions:
Prepare the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water.
Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent crystallization.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Semolina Base:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat.
Add 1 cup of semolina and stir constantly until it turns a light golden color and emits a nutty aroma. This process should take around 10 minutes.
Once the semolina is golden, add 1/2 cup of plain yogurt and continue to stir for a few minutes until well combined.
Add Sugar and Milk:
Gradually add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar to the semolina mixture while stirring continuously.
Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, stirring to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Cook the Semolina Base:
Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, typically about 15-20 minutes.
Be patient; the semolina will absorb the liquid and form a luscious, dense texture.
Add Fragrance:
Stir in 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water, adjusting to your preference for fragrance.
Assemble and Garnish:
Transfer the semolina mixture to a baking dish, flattening it with a spoon or spatula.
Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes, and then refrigerate for a couple of hours until it sets.
Serve:
Once set, cut the Qashtalia into diamond or square-shaped pieces.
Optionally, garnish with crushed almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor.
Qashtalia, a Lebanese dessert that combines the heavenly aromas of semolina, milk, and orange blossom water, is a true delight for the senses. Preparing this treat at home allows you to savor the authentic flavors of Lebanon in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or as a special treat for your loved ones, Qashtalia is a dessert that embodies the heartwarming traditions of Lebanese cuisine. Share this delicacy with friends and family, and relish the rich and sweet experience that is Qashtalia.