Algerian Mbesses

Experience the authentic taste of Algeria with this delightful Mbesses recipe, a rustic semolina cake infused with rich butter, warm honey, and a hint of vanilla. Made with simple ingredients like coarse semolina, milk, and a touch of baking powder, this lightly sweetened cake boasts a beautifully golden crust and a soft, moist texture thanks to the honey glaze poured over it while still warm. Perfectly scored into diamond shapes, Mbesses is a visually stunning dessert that pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. Whether you're looking to explore North African cuisine or need an easy yet indulgent treat, this traditional Algerian semolina cake will transport your taste buds to a world of timeless flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 47/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams coarse semolina
• 100 grams granulated sugar
• 250 grams unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 150 milliliters milk
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 50 grams honey

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarse semolina, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3

Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until fully melted.

Step 4

Pour the melted butter over the semolina mixture and stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the semolina is well-coated with butter.

Step 5

Add milk and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.

Step 6

Grease a baking dish or a round cake pan (approximately 30cm in diameter) with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 7

Pour the semolina batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.

Step 8

Using a knife, score the top of the batter into diamond shapes, pressing lightly to create deep grooves.

Step 9

Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10

While the cake is baking, warm the honey on the stove or in the microwave so it becomes liquid.

Step 11

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm honey evenly over the top, ensuring it soaks into the grooves.

Step 12

Allow the cake to cool completely in the dish before cutting it along the scored lines into diamond shapes.

Step 13

Serve with tea or coffee, and enjoy your delicious Algerian Mbesses!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1075.7 grams (1075.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4261

Total Fat 222.90g	286%
Saturated Fat 127.70g	639%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 568mg	189%
Sodium 2631mg	114%
Total Carbohydrate 519.50g	189%
Dietary Fiber 19.50g	70%
Total Sugars 151.10g
Protein 70.60g	141%

Vitamin D 68IU	341%
Calcium 335mg	26%
Iron 6mg	36%
Potassium 1260mg	27%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.9%

Protein: 6.5%

Carbs: 47.6%