Imagine a dessert so divine it has been delighting Egyptian families for centuries - a warm, creamy, and utterly irresistible bread pudding that melts in your mouth with every spoonful. Um Ali, often called the Egyptian comfort dessert, is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that combines the richness of milk, the crunch of nuts, and the delicate sweetness of pastry into one extraordinary dish. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to enchant your senses and bring a touch of Middle Eastern magic to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Egyptian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup nuts (almonds, pistachios)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 pieces of puff pastry
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Take the puff pastry sheets and tear them into rough, uneven pieces. Spread the torn pastry pieces evenly across a large baking dish, creating a rustic, layered base.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped almonds and pistachios. Sprinkle half of the nut mixture over the torn pastry pieces.
- Scatter the raisins across the pastry and nut layer, distributing them evenly throughout the dish.
- In a separate saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture over the pastry, nuts, and raisins, ensuring all pieces are moistened.
- Sprinkle the remaining nuts over the top of the dish and dust with ground cinnamon.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. The pudding will continue to set during this time.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality puff pastry for the best texture and flavor.
- Toast the nuts lightly before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Choose a mix of almonds and pistachios for a more complex taste profile.
- Don't rush the milk mixture - slow heating ensures smooth, even sweetness.
- Watch the pudding closely in the final baking minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Let the pudding rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set properly.
- Serve warm for the most authentic and delightful experience.
- For a luxurious touch, drizzle some cream or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 35mg
