Asabe’ Zeinab (Makaron) – Crispy Middle Eastern Sweet Fingers

Asabe’ Zeinab (Makaron) – Crispy Middle Eastern Sweet Fingers

Asabe’ Zeinab, also known as Makaron, is one of Egypt’s most loved traditional desserts. It is often prepared alongside sweets like Balah El Sham and Baklava, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. While it’s available year-round in sweet shops, many women in Egypt still prefer making it at home, serving it warm with a cup of hot tea.

Here’s how to prepare this delicious, crunchy treat at home.

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Ingredients (Serves 20–25)

 

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 6 cups semolina

• ½ cup ghee or butter (your choice)

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 tbsp yeast

• Warm water (as needed for kneading)

• Oil for frying

For the syrup (sharbat):

• 3 cups sugar

• 2 cups water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• ¼ tsp vanilla

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Preparation

Step 1 – Make the dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, semolina, and yeast. Mix well.

2. Gradually add warm water while kneading until you get a soft, pliable dough.

3. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes to rise slightly.

Step 2 – Shape the fingers

1. Once the dough has rested, shape it into small finger-sized rolls.

2. Roll each piece gently over a grater or a patterned mold to give it the traditional ridged texture.

3. Set aside and let them rest for another 10 minutes.

Step 3 – Prepare the syrup

1. In a saucepan, mix sugar and water. Bring to a boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves.

2. Add lemon juice and vanilla, then let it simmer until slightly thickened.

3. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.

Step 4 – Fry and finish

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the dough fingers until golden and crispy on all sides.

2. Remove them from the oil and drain excess oil.

3. While still warm, dip the fried fingers in the cooled syrup, coating them well.

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✨ Serve Asabe’ Zeinab on a platter with a hot cup of tea. Crispy, sweet, and full of flavor—this dessert is a true Ramadan and family favorite.