Sweet Vermicelli With Saffron (emirati Balaleet)

Sweet Vermicelli with Saffron, also known as Emirati Balaleet, is a traditional dessert from Eastern Arabian cuisine. This dish is a delightful combination of sweet vermicelli, saffron, and cardamom, offering a unique and aromatic flavor.

Sweet Vermicelli With Saffron (emirati Balaleet)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups vermicelli
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1/4 cup condensed milk (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Boil the vermicelli in water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 10 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the ghee over medium heat and add the boiled vermicelli, sugar, saffron water, and ground cardamom. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the raisins, slivered almonds, and shredded coconut to the skillet, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the sweet vermicelli to a serving dish.
  6. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top and drizzle with condensed milk if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
30 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
10g
Protein
5g

Supplies

Large skillet Small bowl Serving dish

Tools

Stove Strainer Spatula

Serving suggestions

Serve the Sweet Vermicelli with Saffron warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can also add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a few drops of rose water to the sweet vermicelli during cooking.

Cost

$10