This creamy, dreamy Strawberry Muhallabia is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. This version, developed at Dr. Sumaiya NutriCare Clinic, focuses on balancing flavor with nutritional considerations. We’ll guide you through making a healthier version of this classic treat, perfect for a light dessert or a special occasion.
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Making the Strawberry Puree
- Making the Muhallabia
- Assembling and Serving
- Nutritional Benefits
- Variations and Tips
- Conclusion
- References
Introduction
Muhallabia (also spelled Muhallebi) is a milk pudding popular throughout the Middle East. It’s often flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water, and can be garnished with nuts and fruits. This recipe features fresh strawberries, adding natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| For the Strawberry Puree: | ||
| Fresh Strawberries | 15 | Chopped |
| Sugar | 2-3 tbsp | Adjust to taste and strawberry sweetness |
| For the Muhallabia: | ||
| Milk | 1 liter | Whole or low-fat |
| Cornflour | 4 tbsp | |
| Rice Flour | 1.5 tbsp (heaped) | |
| Sugar | 8 tbsp | Adjust to your preference |
| Strawberry Essence | 1 tsp | |
| Orange Blossom Water | 1/2 tsp | Optional, but adds a traditional flavor |
| Heavy Cream (Optional) | 3 tbsp | For extra richness |
| For Garnish: | ||
| Pistachio Powder | As needed | |
| Almond Flakes | As needed | |
| Strawberry Pieces | As needed | |
| Strawberry Sauce (Optional) | As needed | For extra sweetness |
Making the Strawberry Puree
- Take 15 strawberries and chop them well. Add a 2 or 3 tbsps of sugar and cook until the water had dried up and the mixture thickens.
Making the Muhallabia
- In a large vessel, combine 1 liter of milk, 4 tablespoons of cornflour, 1.5 tablespoons of heaped rice flour, and 8 tablespoons of sugar (adjust sweetness as needed).Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly until the flours and sugar are fully dissolved.Place the vessel on medium heat and cook, stirring continuously with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming.After 8-10 minutes, the milk will come to a boil and thicken. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of strawberry essence and 1/2 teaspoon of orange blossom water (optional).If desired, add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream for a richer texture. Mix well.Allow the mixture to cool completely. Once cooled, gently fold in the prepared strawberry puree.
Assembling and Serving
- In serving dishes or a large bowl, sprinkle a thin layer of pistachio powder.Pour the cooled Muhallabia mixture over the pistachio layer.Sprinkle another layer of pistachio powder on top.Garnish with almond flakes, fresh strawberry pieces, and a drizzle of strawberry sauce (optional, for added sweetness).
Nutritional Benefits
-
Strawberries: Excellent source of Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. They contribute to immune health and may help protect against chronic diseases.Milk: Provides calcium and Vitamin D, essential for bone health. Choose low-fat or skim milk to reduce saturated fat intake.Rice Flour: A gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, making this dessert suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities.Pistachios and Almonds: Offer healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to satiety and providing essential nutrients.
Important Note: While this recipe uses a moderate amount of sugar, you can adjust the quantity to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Consider using natural sweeteners like honey or stevia in moderation as alternatives, but be mindful of how they may alter the flavor and texture. Always consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Variations and Tips
-
Other Fruits: You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even mangoes for a tropical twist.Spices: Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk) and replace heavy cream with a vegan alternative like coconut cream. Ensure the cornflour and rice flour are certified vegan.Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute suitable for cooking, such as erythritol or a stevia blend. Be sure to adjust the amount according to the substitute’s sweetness level.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Muhallabia is a delicious and relatively healthy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. By using fresh ingredients and making mindful adjustments, you can enjoy this classic treat while keeping your nutritional goals in mind. Remember to adjust the sweetness and ingredients to your liking and dietary needs.
For personalized nutrition advice and to discuss your dietary needs, book a consultation with Dr. Sumaiya at Dr. Sumaiya NutriCare Clinic. Get free advice via email by filling out our patient history form!