Hanini Al-Qassim – Traditional Saudi Dessert Recipe

Hanini Al-Qassim – Traditional Saudi Dessert Recipe

What is Hanini Al-Qassim?

 Hanini Al-Qassim is one of the most delicious and beloved traditional Gulf desserts, particularly famous in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. This rich and flavorful dish holds a special place in Gulf cuisine, often served as a main dessert in various celebrations and gatherings.

This dish is particularly popular during Ramadan, as it is frequently enjoyed at iftar (breakfast meal after fasting). It is also a favorite winter treat, as it provides warmth and energy due to its high nutritional content, including essential vitamins and minerals.

The key ingredients of Hanini Al-Qassim are simple and include dates, whole wheat bread, and butter, making it both nutritious and easy to prepare.

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Ingredients for Hanini Al-Qassim:

 

Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups of unsweetened milk
• 4 cups of boiling water
• 2 cups of pitted dates
• 200 grams of soft butter (about ½ cup)
• 2 lemons
• 18 tablespoons of ground dried wheat bread (Qursan Al-Bur)
• 3 cups of whole wheat flour
• ¼ teaspoon of salt

For the Sauce:

• Juice of 2 lemons
• 50 grams of soft butter

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How to Prepare Hanini Al-Qassim:

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a deep mixing bowl, combine flour, water, salt, and milk.
2. Mix well, then knead the dough using an electric mixer for about 5 minutes.
3. Continue kneading by hand until the dough becomes soft and smooth.

Step 2: Shaping and Cooking the Dough

4. Place the dough on a floured wooden surface and roll it out using a rolling pin.
5. Cut the dough into medium-sized round discs of uniform shape.
6. Heat a flat griddle or traditional saj over medium heat until it is completely hot.
7. Lightly grease the griddle with butter or ghee, then place the dough discs on the surface.
8. Let them cook without flipping until the bottom turns golden brown, then flip to cook the other side.
9. Once fully cooked, remove the bread from the heat and place it in a flat dish.
10. Tear the bread into small crumbs for the next step.

Step 3: Mixing with Dates

11. In a deep bowl, mash the pitted dates thoroughly by hand until they become soft.
12. Add the crumbled bread to the mashed dates and knead the mixture well until fully combined.

Step 4: Adding Butter & Final Mixing

13. Pour the melted butter into the date and bread mixture and knead again until a soft, smooth dough forms.
14. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until it becomes a uniform and consistent paste.

Step 5: Cooking Hanini Mixture

15. Pour the blended mixture into a deep pot and place it over low heat.
16. Gradually add the remaining butter, stirring occasionally.
17. Increase the heat slightly and allow the mixture to simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serving Hanini Al-Qassim

18. Once fully cooked, remove from heat and pour into a serving dish.
19. Let it cool slightly, then drizzle with the prepared butter and lemon sauce.
20. Serve warm and enjoy this authentic and delicious Saudi dessert!

💡 Tip: Hanini pairs wonderfully with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea for an authentic Gulf culinary experience!