Description
Namoura, also known as Basbousa, is a traditional Lebanese semolina cake soaked in sugar syrup and flavored with rose or orange blossom water. This egg-free, golden dessert is soft, slightly crumbly, and topped with almonds or coconut, making it a beloved treat across the Middle East.
Ingredients
- 2 cups coarse semolina
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
- 1/2 cup melted butter or ghee
- 1 tablespoon rose water or orange blossom water
- Blanched almonds or shredded coconut, for topping
- Tahini, for greasing the pan
For the syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with tahini.
- In a large bowl, mix semolina, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda if using.
- Add melted butter and yogurt. Mix until a thick batter forms. Stir in rose or orange blossom water.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Let rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Score the top into squares or diamonds and place an almond in the center of each piece.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup: combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Add lemon juice and floral water. Cool slightly.
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot cake.
- Let it soak and cool completely before cutting and serving.
Notes
Use plant-based yogurt and oil for a dairy-free version.Let the cake rest before baking to help it set properly.Syrup should be cool and cake hot for best absorption.Add shredded coconut to the batter for extra richness.Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp or refrigerate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
