Sugar-Free Algerian Mbesses
Discover a guilt-free twist on a classic North African treat with our *Sugar-Free Algerian Mbesses*. This wholesome semolina-based dessert swaps refined sugar for the natural sweetness of date paste, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile that's perfect for health-conscious sweet lovers. Enhanced with the delicate aroma of orange blossom water and a buttery richness, this recipe offers an authentic taste of Algerian cuisine with a modern, sugar-free spin. Quick and easy to prepare, these golden, melt-in-your-mouth diamond-shaped bites are perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring with a cup of mint tea. Optional grated coconut provides a delightful textural contrast and extra flair. Ideal for those looking for healthier dessert options without compromising on taste, this Sugar-Free Mbesses is a must-try for your next baking adventure!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams coarse semolina
- 250 grams unsalted butter
- 200 grams pitted dates
- 200 milliliters milk
- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 20 grams grated coconut (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Chop the pitted dates into small pieces and place them in a small saucepan. Add the milk and heat gently until the dates soften, then mash them with a fork or blend them with an immersion blender to form a smooth paste. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, mix the coarse semolina, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Melt the unsalted butter in another saucepan over low heat, then pour it over the semolina mixture. Mix well with your hands or a spatula until the semolina absorbs the butter completely.
Add the date paste to the semolina mixture, along with the orange blossom water. Mix until a smooth dough forms. The consistency should be thick and moldable.
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with your hands or a spatula. Score the top of the dough with a knife to create diamond shapes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting along the scored lines to form diamond shapes.
Garnish with grated coconut if desired before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4419 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 237.3 g | 304% | |
| Saturated Fat | 139.7 g | 698% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 572 mg | 191% | |
| Sodium | 719 mg | 31% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 530.9 g | 193% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 36.1 g | 129% | |
| Total Sugars | 146.5 g | ||
| Protein | 77.1 g | 154% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.3 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 527 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 8.4 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 2768 mg | 59% | |
*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.
