Om Ali, also known as Umm Ali, is a traditional Egyptian dessert that has captured the hearts and palates of many around the world. This rich, creamy dish is often compared to bread pudding and is a staple in Egyptian cuisine, particularly during festive occasions and gatherings.
Om Ali dates back to the Ayyubid dynasty in the 13th century. The dessert’s name, translating to “Mother of Ali,” links to a historical figure named Shagaret El Dorr, the wife of the Sultan of Egypt. Legend tells that after her husband’s death, Shagaret El Dorr married a second husband with a son named Ali. Family power struggles led to her husband’s death. To celebrate her victory, Shagaret El Dorr commissioned a special dessert, naming it Om Ali in honor of Ali’s mother.
Om Ali holds a special place in Egyptian culture. People often prepare it during religious festivals, such as Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. It is also a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions. Its comforting and indulgent nature makes it popular during the colder months.
The traditional recipe for Om Ali includes layers of flaky pastry, usually puff pastry or leftover bread. Mixed with milk, sugar, and nuts like pistachios, almonds, and hazelnuts, it creates a rich and creamy dessert. Some add raisins and coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture. The mixture bakes until golden and bubbly, producing a crispy top.
Modern Variations
While the classic Om Ali recipe remains popular, modern versions have emerged. Some use croissants instead of puff pastry for a richer texture. Others include spices like cinnamon and cardamom. These adaptations show the evolving nature of Egyptian cuisine, blending diverse influences with traditional roots.
In conclusion, Om Ali is more than just a dessert. It reflects Egypt’s rich culinary history and cultural heritage. Its enduring popularity and the warm memories it evokes make it a beloved dish that continues to bring people together, both in Egypt and beyond.
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Egyptian Umm Ali (Om Ali) Dessert
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cut the bread or the ingredients you will use (see description) into small pieces or divide them with your hands. Spread the bread on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
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Melt the butter. Pour the melted butter over the bread on the tray with the help of a spoon. Throw the bread into the preheated 200 degree oven. Leave it in the oven for 10 minutes.
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In a large bowl, mix 1 box of cream and 1 pack of vanilla with a whisk. Thin the mixture by first whisking it with a few tablespoons of milk. Add 4 cups of milk and continue mixing until you get a homogeneous mixture. Finally add 6 tablespoons of sugar and mix again.
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Divide the baked bread into soufflé bowls or other heat-resistant bowls. Place the bowls back on the baking tray. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of raisins and 1 teaspoon of coconut on the bread.
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Share the creamy milk mixture you prepared over the bowls. Place it back in the oven preheated to 200 degrees and bake for 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, in a bowl, beat 1 box of cream with 5-6 tablespoons of milk to thin it. At the end of the time, share this mixture on the bread bowls you took out of the oven. Place the bowls back in the oven and bake until golden brown.
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Decorate the bowls that come out of the oven as you wish. The most harmonious flavor to decorate will be with nuts and dried fruits.
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You can consume your dessert warm or cold according to preference. Bon Appetit!
