Sahlab

Sahlab is a body-warming, sugary pudding, and one of the most famous desserts in the Arab world and Turkey. It is a traditional winter dessert that dates back to the Ottoman Empire, when Levantine Arabs lived under Turkish rule.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Sahlab powder or 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons sugar, or to taste
• 2 teaspoons rose or orange-blossom water (optional)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios
• Ground cinnamon

Preparation

1. Mix the Sahlab powder or cornstarch with a few tablespoons of milk.
2. Bring the remaining milk to a boil. Pour in the starch mixture, stirring vigorously, so that lumps do not form.
3. Cook over very low heat, stirring continuously, until the milk thickens (about 10 minutes). Then stir in the sugar and the rose water or orange blossom water, if you so desire.
4. Serve in cups with the chopped pistachios and cinnamon as garnish. You may also sprinkle grated coconut on top.