Syrian Znoud El-Sit – Recipe and Preparation Method

Syrian Znoud El-Sit – Recipe and Preparation Method

Znoud El-Sit is a famous Middle Eastern dessert, widely enjoyed in the Levant and Iraq. Its history dates back to the Ottoman era, when it is said that the governor of Tripoli was the first to serve it. A guest who tasted the dessert gave it the name “Znoud El-Sit,” which literally means “the lady’s arms.”

This dessert is especially popular in winter and is rich in calories and nutrients. For example, every 80 grams of Znoud El-Sit provides about 491 calories, 25 grams of fat, 14 grams of saturated fat, 82 grams of cholesterol, 65 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein.

Ingredients for Syrian Znoud El-Sit

 

• 1 package of ready-made baklava pastry sheets

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup clotted cream (ashta)

• ¼ cup white flour

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

• Vegetable oil for frying

• 1 cup finely chopped pistachios (for garnish)

• Pre-prepared sugar syrup (for soaking)

Method of Preparation

1. Take the baklava pastry sheets out of the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature.

2. In a small bowl, mix the water with 1 tablespoon of flour until smooth.

3. In another pot, combine the milk, flour, sugar, and orange blossom water. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens.

4. Pour the mixture into a wide dish, let it cool, then mix in the clotted cream until smooth.

5. Take one sheet of pastry, brush lightly with oil, and fold it. Shape it into a “T” shape, place some of the cream filling in the center, then roll it up into a stuffed log. Seal the ends so the filling stays inside.

6. Heat oil in a pan and fry the rolls until golden brown. Remove from the oil and immediately dip them into the sugar syrup for about 30 seconds to absorb the sweetness.

7. Place on a serving dish, sprinkle with pistachios, and serve warm to your guests.