Authentic Shamali: A Traditional Semolina Cake Recipe from the Middle East

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of semolina
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 cup of plain yogurt
  • 1 tsp of baking powder
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1/2 cup of blanched almonds
  • 1 tsp of almond extract
  • 1 tbsp of flour for dusting
  • For the syrup:
    • 2 cups of sugar
    • 1 cup of water
    • 1 tbsp of lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the semolina, sugar, baking powder, and almond extract.
  2. Add the yogurt and vegetable oil to the semolina mixture and stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
  3. Gradually add milk to the mixture, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth batter.
  4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and grease a baking tray with a little bit of oil.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared tray and spread it evenly using a spatula. Dust it with a bit of flour.
  6. Decorate the top of the batter with blanched almonds.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top becomes golden brown.
  8. While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, pour the warm syrup over the cake, making sure it is evenly distributed.
  10. Let the cake absorb the syrup for at least an hour before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Instead of semolina, you can use fine cornmeal or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
  • For a nut-free option, omit the almonds on top or replace them with dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots.
  • Add a teaspoon of rose water or orange blossom water to the batter for a floral flavor twist.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
  • You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted unsalted butter for a richer taste.
  • To make it a chocolate shamali, mix in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and add some chocolate chips on top before baking.
  • For a citrusy variation, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter.
  • If you prefer a thinner cake, divide the batter into two separate pans to create a layered shamali.
  • Instead of the traditional syrup, you can serve the shamali with honey, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
  • For a vegan version, substitute the plain yogurt with coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative.

Recipe overview

Shamali, also known as Semolina Cake, is a popular dessert in the Middle East, particularly in Cyprus. It's a moist, sweet, and delicious cake that's quite simple to prepare and is often enjoyed with coffee or tea. This traditional recipe uses semolina, a form of wheat, as its main ingredient, which gives the cake a rich and hearty texture. The cake is sweetened with a homemade syrup that's poured over the top, allowing it to soak in and intensify the flavors. Despite the cake's luxurious taste, the process to make it is relatively straightforward. With this recipe, you'll be able to create a delightful dessert that's sure to impress your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and let's get started on making your very own Shamali!

Common questions

  1. Can I use different types of nuts instead of almonds?
  2. Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like pistachios or walnuts if you prefer.
  3. Can I use a different type of flour instead of semolina?
  4. No, semolina is a key ingredient in Shamali and provides a unique texture. It is not recommended to substitute it with other flours.
  5. Can I use a sugar substitute?
  6. Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture of the Shamali might differ slightly.
  7. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
  8. Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for plain yogurt in this recipe.
  9. How long does the Shamali need to cool before pouring the syrup?
  10. It is recommended to let the Shamali cool for a few minutes before pouring the warm syrup over it. However, it should still be warm when you pour the syrup to allow it to absorb properly.
  11. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  12. No, since semolina is a wheat-based ingredient, this recipe is not gluten-free. It is not recommended to substitute semolina with gluten-free flours as it will significantly alter the texture and taste of the Shamali.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients.
  • Spatula - To evenly spread the batter in the baking tray.
  • Baking Tray - For baking the shamali cake.
  • Saucepan - To prepare the syrup.
  • Whisk - To mix the ingredients smoothly.
  • Oven - To bake the shamali cake.
  • Blender - Optional: For grinding blanched almonds into a powder to sprinkle on top.
  • Serving Platter - To present and serve the shamali cake.

Origin stories

This delightful semolina cake, known as Shamali, has its roots nestled in the rich and varied cuisines of the Eastern Mediterranean, specifically Cyprus. Once upon a time, it was traditionally served to guests during engagement ceremonies, symbolizing a sweet and prosperous life ahead for the betrothed couple. The cake's ingredients like semolina, sugar, and almonds were considered valuable commodities, making Shamali a luxurious treat. Today, this moist and sweet confection is a popular dessert choice in households and coffee shops across Cyprus and beyond, not just for special occasions but every day sweet cravings. It embodies the warm hospitality and rich history of the Cypriot culture, its story reaching out across centuries and continents, inviting everyone to take a bite and enjoy a piece of this sweet heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.