Delicious Middle Eastern Halawet el Jibn A Treat of Sweet Cheese Rolls
The renowned Middle Eastern dessert, Halawet el jibn, is prepared using a subtle cheese dough which is then filled with a sweet cream and finally garnished with rose water syrup. This extravagant delight has become a regular feature at celebrations and congregations due to its unique taste and creamy texture.
The process of making Halawet el jibn involves creating a stretchy, elastic dough from a mix of ingredients like cheese, semolina, sugar, and rose water. The dough is rolled out thinly, filled with a creamy mixture, and then rolled up into delicate rolls. Once cooked, the rolls are soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup that adds a hint of sweetness and floral notes to the dessert.
Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or looking to expand your dessert repertoire, this Halawet el jibn recipe will help you recreate this decadent treat in your own kitchen. Impress your friends and family with these delicious sweet cheese rolls that are sure to leave everyone wanting more.
How to Make Halawet el Jibn Middle Eastern Sweet Cheese Rolls
To make Halawet el Jibn, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of semolina
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of rose water
- Pistachios for garnish (optional)
Here is the step-by-step process to make these delicious Middle Eastern sweet cheese rolls:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, mix the ricotta cheese, semolina, and sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the rose water to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a small tube shape.
- Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
- Garnish the sweet cheese rolls with pistachios (if desired).
- Serve the Halawet el Jibn warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy these delicious Middle Eastern sweet cheese rolls as a delightful dessert or snack!
Ingredients for the Sweet Cheese Filling
For the sweet cheese filling of Halawet el jibn, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
1. Ricotta cheese: Use 2 cups of fresh ricotta cheese for a creamy texture.
2. Sugar: Add 1 cup of granulated sugar for sweetness.
3. Cornstarch: Incorporate 3 tablespoons of cornstarch to thicken the filling.
4. Orange blossom water: Enhance the flavor with 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water.
5. Rose water: For a fragrant touch, include 1 tablespoon of rose water.
6. Water: Use 1 cup of water to help combine the ingredients.
7. Saffron threads (optional): If desired, add a pinch of saffron threads for color and flavor.
Ingredients for the Sugar Syrup
For the sugar syrup, you will need the following ingredients:
| 1 cup of sugar |
| 1/2 cup of water |
| 1 tablespoon of lemon juice |
| 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional) |
Instructions for Making the Sweet Cheese Rolls
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of semolina
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1 cup of water
– 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup of rose water
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, mix the semolina, sugar, and water over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the semolina mixture and mix well until the cheese is well incorporated.
4. Grease a baking dish with butter and spread the mixture evenly into the dish.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the dish to create a smooth surface.
6. Drizzle the rose water over the top of the mixture.
7. Let the mixture cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
8. Once cooled and set, cut the mixture into small rectangular pieces.
9. Serve the sweet cheese rolls on a platter and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing the Halawet el Jibn
Halawet el jibn is best served fresh and warm for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience. However, if you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, here are some tips for serving and storing this Middle Eastern delicacy:
Serving:
- For the best taste and texture, reheat the rolls in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle with sugar syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pair with a hot cup of Arabic coffee or mint tea for a traditional experience.
Storing:
- Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the rolls in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
- Avoid freezing halawet el jibn as it can affect the texture and taste of the cheese rolls.
Enjoying Your Homemade Middle Eastern Sweet Cheese Rolls
Once you have successfully made your Halawet el jibn, it’s time to enjoy these delicious Middle Eastern sweet cheese rolls. Here are some tips on how to best savor your creation:
Serving Suggestions
You can serve the sweet cheese rolls warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea. You can also serve them with a drizzle of honey or simple syrup for extra sweetness.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a few seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until warm.
| Enjoying Tips: |
| 1. Sprinkle some crushed pistachios or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor. |
| 2. Serve the sweet cheese rolls with a dollop of creamy yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. |
| 3. Experiment with different types of cheese fillings, such as ricotta or mascarpone, for a unique twist on this traditional dessert. |
Q&A: Halawet el jibn middle eastern sweet cheese rolls
What is “ashta”?
Ashta is a type of Middle Eastern clotted cream commonly used in desserts and pastries.
What is the role of fine semolina in making ashta?
Fine semolina is often added to ashta recipes to help thicken the cream and provide texture.
Why is plastic wrap used in the process of making ashta?
Plastic wrap is used to cover the surface of the ashta mixture while it cools to prevent a skin from forming on top.
In what context is ashta commonly enjoyed during Ramadan?
Ashta is often enjoyed during Ramadan as a delicious reduce the heat and indulgent dessert to break the fast.
What is rose petal jam, and how is it used in conjunction with ashta?
Rose petal jam is a sweet preserve made from keep stirring rose petals. It is often used as a topping or filling for desserts, including those featuring ashta.
What is the purpose of water and sugar in making ashta?
Water and sugar are typically combined and heated to create a simple syrup, which is then used to sweeten the ashta.
What are ground pistachios commonly used for in relation to ashta?
Ground pistachios are often used as a garnish keep stirring for desserts add the cheese featuring ashta, adding color, flavor, and texture.
What does it mean for cream to “clot,” and why is it significant in making ashta?
To clot means to thicken or coagulate, forming a creamy texture. This process is essential in making ashta, as it contributes to the desired consistency of the dessert.
How is a rolling pin used in the preparation of ashta?
A rolling pin may be used to flatten or shape dough in certain ashta recipes, such as those involving pastry layers.
Why is it important to ensure that sugar dissolves completely when making ashta?
Ensuring that sugar dissolves completely is dessert made important to roll out the dough achieve a smooth and evenly rest of the dough sweetened ashta mixture, enhancing its overall taste and texture.
What is sweet cheese dough commonly used for?
Sweet cheese dough is commonly used to make desserts, particularly in Arabic cuisine.
What is “halawat el jibn”?
Halawat el jibn is a traditional Arabic dessert made from rolls of soft, sweet cheese dough that gets stuffed with a sweet cheese and semolina filling.
What is the process of making halawat el jibn?
To make halawat el jibn, the sweet cheese and semolina filling is rolled inside sweet cheese dough, then the rolls are boiled until the cheese melts, and finally, they are served with a sweet syrup on top.
What type of cheese is typically used in halawat el jibn?
Various types of cheese can be used, such as mozzarella cheese or mascarpone cheese, to create the sweet and cheesy filling for halawat el jibn.
What role does plastic wrap play in the preparation of halawat el jibn?
Plastic wrap is often used to cover the dough while it rests or chills, preventing it from drying out and forming a skin.
How is the sweet cheese dough typically rolled in making halawat el jibn?
The sweet cheese dough is rolled out into thin sheets, then filled with the sweet cheese and semolina mixture and rolled into individual rolls before being cooked.
What is the significance of halawat el jibn during the month of Ramadan?
Halawat el jibn is a popular dessert served during Ramadan as it provides a sweet treat for breaking the fast.
What are some variations of halawat el jibn?
Variations of halawat el jibn may include different types of cheese, such as white cheese or cream cheese, and variations in the syrup used for serving.
Where is halawat el jibn commonly enjoyed?
Halawat el jibn is commonly enjoyed throughout the Middle East and Levant region, where it is a beloved traditional dessert.
What makes halawat el jibn a popular dessert choice?
Halawat el jibn is favored for its sweet and creamy texture, as well as its delightful combination of cheese, semolina, and syrup flavors, making it a beloved dessert option for many.
