Umm Ali, also spelled Om Ali, is a delicious and traditional Egyptian dessert that resembles a bread pudding. It's made with layers of pastry soaked in milk and mixed with nuts, sweetened with sugar, and often flavored with spices like cinnamon or vanilla. Here's a simple recipe to make Umm Ali at home:
Ingredients
- 1 package (about 400g) of puff pastry or 10 pieces of croissant, torn into pieces
- 5 cups of milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 - 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to your taste)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, and pine nuts), chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried coconut flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the Pastry:
- If using puff pastry, bake it according to package instructions until it's golden and puffed. Let it cool, then break it into pieces. If using croissants, simply tear them into small pieces.
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Mix Nuts and Pastry:
- In a large bowl, combine the torn pastry pieces with the chopped nuts and raisins or coconut flakes, if using.
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Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Do not let it boil.
- Add vanilla extract and cinnamon if using.
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Assemble the Umm Ali:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the pastry-nut mixture in a large baking dish.
- Pour the warm milk mixture over the pastry until it's just covered.
- Let it soak for a few minutes, so the pastry absorbs the milk.
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Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the milk mixture has thickened.
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Serve:
- Let Umm Ali cool slightly, then sprinkle powdered sugar on top if desired.
- Serve it warm or at room temperature.
Umm Ali is a comforting, hearty dessert that's perfect for gatherings or as a special treat. It's rich and filling, with a lovely combination of textures from the creamy milk and the crunchy nuts. Enjoy your homemade Umm Ali!
