Delicious and Authentic Egyptian Om Ali Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 puff pastry sheet
  • 4 cups of milk
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp of vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of mixed nuts (like pistachios, almonds, and pine nuts), crushed
  • 1/2 cup of raisins
  • 1/2 cup of desiccated coconut
  • 1/2 cup of powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (around 400 degrees Fahrenheit).
  2. Cut the puff pastry sheet into squares and spread them out on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake the puff pastry in the oven until it is golden brown and puffy. This should take around 10-15 minutes.
  4. While the puff pastry is baking, heat the milk, cream, and half of the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot.
  5. Remove the puff pastry from the oven and break it into pieces. Place the pieces in a baking dish.
  6. Pour the hot milk mixture over the puff pastry in the baking dish, making sure all the pieces are covered.
  7. Mix the remaining sugar with the crushed nuts, raisins, and desiccated coconut. Spread this mixture over the top of the milk and puff pastry in the baking dish.
  8. Bake the dish in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the pudding is bubbling.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
  10. Serve the Om Ali warm, with additional powdered sugar on the side if desired.

Tools for making

  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the puff pastry squares.
  • Saucepan - Used to heat the milk, cream, and sugar mixture.
  • Baking dish - Where the puff pastry pieces and milk mixture will be combined and baked.
  • Mixing bowl - Used to mix the crushed nuts, raisins, coconut, and sugar for the topping.
  • Whisk - To stir the milk mixture and ensure the sugar is dissolved.
  • Oven - Used to bake the puff pastry and the final dish.
  • Spatula - To break the baked puff pastry into pieces and transfer them to the baking dish.

Recipe variations

  • Use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry for a lighter and flakier texture.
  • Replace the mixed nuts with a different combination such as walnuts, cashews, or hazelnuts.
  • Add a touch of cinnamon or cardamom to the milk mixture for a hint of spice.
  • Try adding chopped dried fruits like apricots or dates to the nut and raisin mixture for added sweetness.
  • For a chocolate twist, sprinkle chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before baking.
  • Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free puff pastry or phyllo dough and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  • For a vegan version, use dairy-free milk (such as almond or soy milk) and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
  • Experiment with different flavor extracts such as almond or rosewater to customize the taste.
  • Add a layer of sliced bananas or apples between the puff pastry and the milk mixture for a fruity variation.
  • Top the finished Om Ali with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Recipe overview

Om Ali, also known as Umm Ali, is a scrumptious traditional Egyptian dessert that is akin to a bread pudding. This version of the recipe uses puff pastry for a deliciously rich and flaky texture, soaked in a sweet milk mixture. The dessert is then topped with a mix of crushed nuts, raisins, and coconut, providing a textural contrast and a burst of flavors. Finally, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a delightful finishing touch. The result is a warm, comforting dessert that's perfect for any occasion. The process is straightforward, making it a great dish to prepare when you're craving something sweet and satisfying. Enjoy the journey of making this unique dessert and be ready to delight your taste buds with its luscious flavors.

Common questions

  1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry. It saves time and works well for this recipe.
  2. Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
    Certainly! You can customize this recipe by using different types of nuts or adding dried fruits of your choice.
  3. Can I make Om Ali ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make Om Ali ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
  4. Can I freeze the leftover Om Ali?
    Yes, you can freeze the leftover Om Ali. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
  5. Can I use a different type of milk instead of cow's milk?
    Yes, you can use alternative types of milk like almond milk or coconut milk if you prefer. It will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.
  6. Can I make this recipe without nuts?
    Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer to omit them, you can make this recipe without nuts. It will still be tasty.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the puff pastry squares.
  • Saucepan - Used to heat the milk, cream, and sugar mixture.
  • Baking dish - Used to assemble and bake the Om Ali.
  • Mixing spoon - Used to stir the milk mixture and combine the ingredients.
  • Oven - Used to bake the puff pastry and the assembled Om Ali.
  • Powdered sugar dusting tool - Optional tool for dusting powdered sugar over the Om Ali.

Origin stories

Om Ali, often referred to as the "Queen of Egyptian desserts", has an interesting yet somewhat dark origin story. The name translates to "Ali's Mother", and it is said to have been created by the first wife of Sultan Ezz El Din Aybek. After the Sultan's second wife died, the first wife had this dessert made in celebration and distributed throughout Egypt. Despite its grim origins, Om Ali remains a beloved dessert in Egypt and across the Middle East. It's a warm and comforting pudding, traditionally made with puff pastry, milk, sugar, and a sprinkling of nuts and raisins. This dish, like the story behind it, has been passed down through generations, and continues to be a staple at festive gatherings and celebrations.

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.