Emirati cuisine is a unique combination of ingredients and flavors from India, India, and East Africa. This rich culinary tradition is well-known for its fresh seafood, meat, rice dishes, and delicious desserts.
Desserts and sweets are a central part of Emirati culture. They are used as a symbol of hospitality and generosity. These sweet treats are an integral part of social gatherings and celebrations. They offer a glimpse into Emirati culture’s heart and soul.
This blog will focus on Emirati sweets and desserts. We’ll explore the cultural history and significance of every dessert, from the sweet and sticky Luqaimat to umm Ali, the creamy and aromatic Umm Ali.
Come along with us on our culinary adventure as we explore the delicious world of sweets and desserts from Emiratis.
Luqaimat
Luqaimat, a traditional Emirati dessert, is loved by locals and tourists. These tiny, round dumplings are fried until golden brown on the outside and then dipped in sweet syrup. Luqaimat is a delicious combination of crispy outer and syrupy sweet center.
History of Luqaimat
Luqaimat’s origins can be traced back to the Arabian Peninsula Bedouin culture. The dessert was popular among Bedouin tribes, who made it for special occasions and celebrations.
The Emiratis adopted the luqaimat recipe over time, becoming a common staple of Emirati cuisine. It is still a popular dish at Ramadan and other religious holidays, as well as at weddings and family gatherings, and other special occasions.
Recipe for Luqaimat
The recipe for making luqaimat at your home is very simple. Here are the ingredients:
Ingredients:
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups warm water
Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For serving, honey or date syrup
Instructions:
Combine the flour, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Combine all ingredients.
Slowly add warm water to dry the ingredients. Continue stirring until you get a sticky, smooth batter.
Place the bowl in a towel to cover it. Let it sit in the warm place for at least an hour or until the batter doubles.
Over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil in an ovenproof frying pan.
Use a spoon to scoop small amounts of the batter out and then drop them in the hot oil. Once the luqaimat is golden brown on the outside and crispy on top, fry them in hot oil. Then drain them on a paper towel.
The luqaimat should be served immediately with honey or date syrup drizzled over it.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Although luqaimat can be enjoyed as is, you can dress it up to make it more appealing.
Here are some popular options and variations:
Sprinkle powdered sugar and cinnamon on the luqaimat
Top the luqaimat by adding crushed almonds, pistachios, or other nuts
Add a scoop of whipped cream to the luqaimat
Serve the luqaimat alongside fresh fruit or fruit compotes
Try different syrups, like rose water or saffron.
Luqaimat, a versatile and delicious dessert, will surely please any sweet tooth. Luqaimat is a delicious and versatile dessert that will please everyone, whether celebrating an occasion or simply looking to share a tasty treat with family and friends. You can easily make luqaimat at home with simple ingredients and quick preparation.
Balaleet
Balaleet, known as vermicelli pudding, has been a beloved Emirati dessert for many generations. It can be traced back to the ancient Persian Empire, where it was considered a luxury dish that was only available to the most wealthy. Balaleet, popular in the Gulf region today, is often served at special occasions like weddings or Eid celebrations.
Balaleet is made from thin vermicelli noodles. They are first toasted in butter to a golden brown. After the noodles have absorbed the liquid, they are boiled in milk, sugar, and cardamom and fried until tender. Garnish the dish with nuts and fried raisins for added flavor and aroma.
Balaleet is easy to make at home and only requires a few ingredients, which are easily found in most supermarkets. Here is how to make balaleet at your home.
Ingredients:
1 cup vermicelli noodles
2 cups milk
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or pistachios).
Optional: Cinnamon or Saffron
Instructions:
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Toast the vermicelli noodles for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown.
Bring the milk, sugar, cardamom, and water to a boil in a saucepan. Turn down the heat and allow the noodles to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they absorb all the liquid and become soft and tender.
Fry the chopped nuts and raisins in butter until golden brown.
Serve the balaleet on a plate or bowl. Top it with nuts and fried raisins. If desired, sprinkle with cinnamon or saffron.
Balaleet is a warm or cold dish that can be enjoyed after a hearty meal. This is a great pairing with Arabic tea or coffee. You can garnish it with fresh fruit or whipped milk for extra sweetness.
You can find many types of balaleet in the Gulf region. Some recipes call for rose water or orange blossom waters for a stronger, more floral flavor. Others use condensed milk or cream for a creamier, richer texture. Some recipes include eggs. These are added to the milk and sugar mixture to make a custard-like consistency.
Balaleet, a sweet and delicious dessert that Emiratis have enjoyed for generations, is a favorite of Emiratis. Balaleet is a popular Gulf dish due to its rich history and cultural significance. Its simple recipe and versatility make it an excellent addition to any meal. You can make balaleet at home to enjoy the sweet Emirati cuisine.
Umm Ali
Umm Ali, also known as Omm Ali and Om Ali, is a delicious dessert from Egypt. This dessert is very popular in the Middle East region. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves sweet treats. The layers of phyllo pastry and nuts are layered with creamy milk, then baked in the oven. This comfort food is great for any time of day.
History of Umm Ali
Umm Ali’s origins can be traced back to the Ayyubid Dynasty, which ruled Egypt between the 12th and 13th centuries. According to legend, Umm Ali, the ruler’s wife, created the dessert in celebration of the death of her husband. The dessert was shared among all the people, and everyone loved it. The dessert has been a popular dessert in Egypt ever since and is now available in other Middle Eastern countries.
How to make Umm Ali at Home
Umm Ali can be made easily at home using only a few ingredients. Here’s how to make
Umm Ali.
Ingredients:
1 pack of phyllo pastry sheet
2 cups whole milk
1 can condensed milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Heat the whole milk, condensed and heavy cream in a large saucepan on medium heat. Stir frequently
Continue to stir the mixture until it is well combined.
Let the mixture cool.
Layer the phyllo pastry sheets on a baking tray and add chopped pistachios and almonds.
Spread the milk mixture evenly over the phyllo pastry layers.
Add more chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the mix.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the phyllo pastry turns golden brown and the milk mixture bubbles.
Take it out of the oven and let it cool down for a while before you serve.
Serving suggestions and variations
Umm Ali is delicious as a dessert or as a snack. You can top it with fresh fruits like mangoes or sliced strawberries for a refreshing twist. These are just a few of the many variations you can try:
Chocolate Umm Ali: Add chocolate chips to the milk mixture and top with cocoa powder.
Fruity Umm Ali: Top with fresh fruits such as bananas, pineapples, or apples.
Nutella Umm Al – Add Nutella and milk to a bowl and garnish with chopped hazelnuts, chocolate shavings, and a drizzle of Nutella.
Umm Ali, a delicious dessert, is simple to make and suitable for all ages. It is a classic in Middle Eastern cuisine and has a long history. This dessert is great for special occasions and after a long day. Make Umm Ali at your home to enjoy the comforting sweet flavors.
Machboos Laouz
Machboos Laouz is also known as Bukhari or almond rice. It’s a traditional Emirati dish that combines the flavors and textures of rice, meat, nuts, and other foods. This popular main dish is often served on special occasions or celebrations in the United Arab Emirates.
Machboos Laouz’s history can be traced back to the Bedouin tribes on the Arabian Peninsula. The original recipe used camel meat, rice, and a mixture of spices in the desert. The dish has evolved over time, and now the meat is replaced by chicken, lamb, or beef, depending on where it was made.
Machboos Laouz is the Arabic name for this dish. It comes from two Arabic words: “machboos,” which means “mixed,” or “laouz,” which translates as “almond.” Names are accurate representations of the ingredients and how the dish is prepared.
Here’s a simple recipe for Machboos Laouz.
Ingredients:
2 cups basmati rice
500g of chicken or lamb, cut into small pieces
2 finely chopped onions
4 minced garlic cloves
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons baharat spice mixture
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup blanched almonds
4 cups water
Instructions:
Rinse the rice well and let it soak in water for 30 min. Drain the rice and place it in a bowl.
In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil on medium heat. Cook the garlic and onions for 5 minutes until they are translucent and soft.
Cook the chicken or lamb pieces in the pot until golden brown.
Add the tomato paste, baharat spice mixture, turmeric powder, and coriander powder to the pot. Mix the spices well and stir to coat the meat.
Cook the almonds in the saucepan for 5 minutes.
Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan.
Stir the rice into the pot. Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice has become tender and all the water is absorbed.
Let the pot cool off and allow it to sit for 10 minutes before you serve.
Machboos Laouz can be eaten as a main dish or with yogurt, salad, or pickles. This is the perfect dish to serve as a main course or side dish at a family meal or for special occasions. The leftovers can be used for lunch the next morning.
You can make Machboos Laouz at home in many different ways, depending on what you like and what you have. To give the dish a sweet and savory taste, some people add dates or raisins to it. Others use cashews or pine nuts. Some people add dried lime or even saffron to give the dish a unique flavor.
Machboos Laouz, a delicious Emirati dish, is simple to prepare at home. It is a unique combination of spices, meat, nuts, and other ingredients that impress your friends and family. Machboos Laouz can be served as a main dish or as leftovers for lunch. It is both comforting and satisfying. This Emirati favorite is a great way to enjoy the unique Middle East flavors. Machboos Laouz, with its rich history and cultural significance, is more than just a dish. It’s a window into Emirati heritage and traditions. Gather all your ingredients, and you’ll see why Machboos Laouz has become a staple in Emirati cuisine.
Esh Asarya
Esh asarya, an Emirati dessert, is made with cream, sugar, vermicelli noodles, and sugar. It is often served at special occasions such as weddings and is loved by children and adults.
History of Esh Asarya
Although it is not known where esh asarya originated, it is believed to have been created in the Levant. The dessert became a favorite Emirati dessert and spread to the Gulf. Esh asarya derives its name from two Arabic words: ‘esh,’ which is Arabic for bread, and asarya, which is Arabic for a type or plate.
Homemade Esh Asarya recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup vermicelli noodles
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon rosewater
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For garnish (optional), pistachios and other nuts
Instructions:
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook the vermicelli noodles until golden brown. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
In a saucepan, add the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Mix the ingredients until the sugar is dissolved.
Reduce heat to low, and allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
After thickening the mixture, take it off the heat and allow it to cool for a while.
Mix the ingredients in a bowl and place them in a dish. Let it cool in the fridge for at least one hour.
If desired, garnish the dish by adding nuts.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
You can have esh asarya hot or cold, depending on your preference. Esh asarya is usually served as a dessert but can also be used as a breakfast meal. You can add saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom to the dish.
There are a few ways to make the traditional esh asarya dish more interesting. You can add raisins or chopped dates to the dish to give it a sweeter taste. You can add a layer of clotted cream to the dish to give it extra flavor.
Esh asarya, a delicious Emirati dessert, is loved by all ages. It is perfect for special occasions and as a treat to yourself. You can make this delicious dessert at your home by following the instructions. Make esh Asarya today to enjoy the sweet side of Emirati cuisine.
Luqmat Al-Qadi
Luqmat Al-Qadi, a traditional Emirati dessert, has been enjoyed for centuries. A small, round, fried dough ball is served with honey or sweet syrup. The dessert was believed to be created during the Abbasid era of the 8th century. The name comes from the qadi, or judge, who allegedly created it.
Luqmat Al-Qadi is a Middle East tradition with a rich past. It has been enjoyed for centuries throughout the Middle East. This dessert was popular during Ramadan because it was a satisfying sweet treat after breaking the fast. It is often served at special occasions and celebrations.
You will need some ingredients to make luqmat al qadi at home. These include flour, sugar, yeast, and milk. This simple recipe yields approximately 20-25 luqmatal-qadi.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm milk
Oil for frying
Serve honey or syrup
Instructions:
Mix together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
Add the warm milk gradually to form a smooth dough. You may need to add flour or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for approximately one hour in a warm location.
Over medium heat, heat the oil in a large frying pan or saucepan.
Drop the dough one by one into the hot oil using a teaspoon or a small cookie spoon.
To ensure even cooking, fry the dough balls on all sides until golden brown.
Transfer the fried dough balls onto a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon to drain any excess oil.
Hot luqmat al qadi with honey or syrup
Luqmat al-qadi is delicious on its own or with various toppings and variations. Sprinkle the dough balls with cinnamon, powdered sugar, and crushed pistachios. Rosewater or saffron can be added to the syrup for extra flavor.
For a chewier texture and chewier consistency, some doughs are made with semolina instead of flour. Add chopped dates, nuts, or syrup to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
Luqmat Al-Qadi, a traditional Emirati dessert, is highly-loved. This dessert is easy to make at home and only requires a few ingredients. You can make this dessert any season with a little imagination and experimentation.
Conclusion
Sweets and desserts from Emirati countries are a unique and delicious way to enjoy the sweet side of Emirati cuisine. There are many delicious options, from the sweet and crunchy luqaimat to creamy umm Ali. Every dessert is rich in history and cultural significance. This reflects the UAE’s heritage and traditions.
It may seem tempting to eat these sweets and desserts at Emirati restaurants or bakeries, but we urge you to make them yourself. You will not only be able to enjoy the joy of creating and cooking, but you’ll also have the chance to share these delicious treats with your friends.
We hope this blog inspires you to make Emirati sweets and desserts, whether you’re an Emirati looking to honor your heritage or a food enthusiast interested in discovering new flavours and cultures. Let the sweet aromas of Emirati cuisine fill your home.