Gluten-Free Algerian Mbesses
Discover the delightful flavors of **Gluten-Free Algerian Mbesses**, a traditional North African semolina cake beautifully reimagined for a gluten-free lifestyle! This tender and aromatic treat blends the nutty texture of cornmeal with gluten-free all-purpose flour, while fragrant **anise seeds** and a hint of **orange blossom water** infuse it with authentic Algerian charm. Lightly sweetened and enriched with melted butter and milk, this simple yet satisfying cake bakes to a golden perfection, offering a moist and subtly grainy texture. Perfect for teatime, dessert, or a sweet snack, this gluten-free variation keeps the essence of classical mbesses alive, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of this cultural gem. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it's an irresistible option for those seeking a taste of tradition without the gluten.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 200 grams Gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 200 grams Cornmeal
- 100 grams Granulated sugar
- 125 grams Unsalted butter, melted
- 250 milliliters Milk
- 1 large Egg
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Anise seeds
- 1 teaspoon Orange blossom water or vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 20cm (8-inch) square baking pan with some butter or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and anise seeds. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
In another bowl, lightly beat the egg and then add in the melted butter, milk, and orange blossom water (or vanilla extract). Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are fully combined.
Slowly pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a smooth batter forms. Avoid over-mixing.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the mbesses from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cut the cooled cake into squares or diamond shapes. Serve and enjoy your gluten-free Algerian mbesses, which can be served warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3000 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 125.3 g | 161% | |
| Saturated Fat | 70.9 g | 355% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 516 mg | 172% | |
| Sodium | 2315 mg | 101% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 453.2 g | 165% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.7 g | 70% | |
| Total Sugars | 114.6 g | ||
| Protein | 35.7 g | 71% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.2 mcg | 21% | |
| Calcium | 413 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 8.3 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 816 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
