Safra – Traditional Libyan Semolina and Date Cake W-Syrup

May 17, 2023May 17, 20230 7
Safra - Traditional Libyan Semolina and Date Cake W-Syrup recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth
in Dessert

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Ready In

60 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

3 tablespoons sunflower oil
1 1/2 lbs pitted dates , chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
2 lbs semolina ( fine or medium )
1 lb granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup sunflower oil
3/4 cup water
blanched almonds or whole cloves , for garnish
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1 cup honey
1 lemon , juice of , 2 to 3 tablespoon

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
394
Sugar
52g
Fat
16g
Safra is a traditional Libyan dessert that's often served during special occasions such as weddings, Eid, or other celebrations. It's a favorite among many Libyans and is usually served with mint tea or coffee after a meal. Safra is made from semolina, sugar, and dates and is topped off with a sweet honey and lemon syrup that gives it a wonderfully rich flavor. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves sweet and savory treats.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with oil.
2.In a medium saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat until hot. Add the dates, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook until the mixture is thick and the dates have broken down, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
3.In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, sugar, and baking powder. Add the cooled date mixture, 1 cup of sunflower oil, and 3/4 cup of water. Mix until well combined.
4.Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface. Lightly score the surface with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern. Place an almond or a whole clove in the center of each diamond.
5.Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6.Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the syrup thickens.
7.When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Pour the hot syrup over the cake, making sure it's evenly distributed. Let the cake absorb the syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving.

PROS

Safra is a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
It’s rich, sweet, and has a unique texture thanks to the semolina.

This recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any special equipment or skills.

If stored in an airtight container, the cake can be stored for a few days.

CONS

Safra is high in sugar and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Safra is not particularly healthy, it does contain dates which are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Dates have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. The semolina in this recipe is also a good source of energy, fiber, and protein.

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