Madlouka Shamiyyeh – Traditional Syrian Creamy Semolina Dessert

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Madlouka Shamiyyeh – Traditional Syrian Creamy Semolina Dessert

Madlouka is one of the most beloved desserts in Syria, especially in Damascus, where it's commonly enjoyed during Ramadan. Known for its rich flavor and nourishing ingredients, Madlouka is made with fresh cream (qashta), semolina, and crushed pistachios—a simple yet elegant dessert that reflects the soul of Levantine sweets.

Ingredients:

Madlouka Shamiyyeh

 

For the Fresh Qashta (Cream Filling):

  • 1 kg of fresh milk

  • 3 tablespoons of lemon juice

  • 1 cup of thick cream (Qaimar or clotted cream)

  • 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water

For the Semolina Base:

  • 1 cup of coarse semolina

  • ¼ cup of fine white sugar

  • 1¼ cups of fresh milk

  • ¼ cup of butter

  • 1 cup of ground pistachios

  • 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water

Note: You’ll also need prepared sugar syrup (ater) for serving.

How to Prepare Madlouka:

Step 1: Make the Fresh Cream (Qashta)

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the fresh milk to a boil.

  2. Once it starts boiling, add the lemon juice. The milk will curdle, separating into curds and whey.

  3. Strain the curds (which form the base of the qashta) using a fine sieve or cheesecloth.

  4. Place the strained qashta in a glass bowl. Add orange blossom water and the thick cream (qaimar). Mix well.

  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Semolina Layer

  1. In a pot over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the coarse semolina.

  2. Stir constantly for about 7 minutes until the semolina turns golden.

  3. Add the sugar, then slowly pour in the fresh milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

  4. Cook until the mixture thickens into a smooth, cohesive dough.

  5. Remove from heat and stir in the ground pistachios and orange blossom water. Mix until fully combined.

  6. Spread the semolina mixture evenly into your serving dish, pressing lightly. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

  1. Once the base is cool, spread the chilled qashta evenly over the top.

  2. Decorate the surface with finely chopped pistachios or other nuts as desired.

  3. When ready to serve, drizzle cold sugar syrup over each portion (amount depending on personal preference).

Serving Suggestion:

Madlouka is served cold, making it a perfect dessert for warm evenings and festive gatherings.

Enjoy this creamy, nutty, and aromatic Syrian delight with health and happiness!

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