Basbousa

Method

1. 1

   In a bowl, combine the fine semolina, sugar, baking powder, desiccated coconut, egg, melted butter and vanilla essence. Add the curd and whisk until evenly combined.

   RavaSugarBaking PowderButterVanilla EssenceCurdEggsDessicated Coconut

2. 2

   Grease an ovenproof pan with butter. Pour the batter into the pan. Tap on the counter a few times to flatten the surface. Refrigerate for an hour.

3. 3

   Bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Add the almonds and boil for 1 minute or until they start to puff up. Remove the almonds from the water and remove the skin.

   Almonds

4. 4

   Remove the skin from the almonds.

5. 5

   In a saucepan, add the water and sugar and bring to a boil. Add the lemon juice. If there is any foam or impurities floating on the surface, remove and discard them. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

   SugarWaterLemon Juice

6. 6

   Once the batter has been refrigerated and has firmed up a little, cut them into squares. Place a blanched almond on each piece.

7. 7

   Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 35 minutes or until it turns golden brown.

8. 8

   Remove from the oven. Pour the sugar syrup over the baked Basbousa.

9. 9

   Bake again for another 10 minutes. Cool it before cutting it into pieces. This can be served warm or chilled.