Ramadan Recipe: Aish El Saraya
Aish El Saraya is a decadent Middle Eastern dessert perfect for Ramadan, featuring layers of toasted bread soaked in fragrant sweet syrup and topped with a rich, creamy ashta—similar to a smooth milk pudding. Finished with a generous sprinkle of crushed pistachios, this no-bake treat is irresistibly sweet, creamy, and perfect for serving at festive gatherings. Its delicate balance of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for those craving a luscious, make-ahead dessert during the holy month.
This recipe was crafted by our esteemed culinary advisor, Chef Sarah.
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Ingredients of Aish El Saraya
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- 15 Minutes
- 10 Serving
- 450 Calories
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
Sweet Syrup
- 2 ½ cups full fat milk
- 2 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup corn starch
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
Cream Layer (Ashta)
- 10 slices of white toast bread, crust trimmed & toasted
- ½ cup pistachio, crushed
Bread Layer
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Method & Directions of Aish El Saraya
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- 30 Minutes
- Prepare the Syrup
تم نسخ الرابطFirst, combine sugar and water in a pot, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil for about 10 minutes, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it slightly thickens. Add the orange blossom water, stir, and set aside to cool.
- Toast the Bread
تم نسخ الرابطPreheat the oven to 200°C. Toast the bread in the oven on both sides for about 10 minutes until browned and crispy. Once ready, arrange the toasted bread in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan.
- Soak the Bread
تم نسخ الرابطPour most of the sweet syrup (about ¾ of it) over the toasted bread, ensuring each piece is well-soaked. Reserve the remaining syrup to serve on the side for those who prefer extra sweetness.
- Prepare the Cream Layer
تم نسخ الرابطIn a pot, combine heavy cream, milk, sugar, and cornstarch while cold. Whisk together until smooth and lump-free. Transfer the pot to the stovetop and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring consistently until it thickens.
- Flavor and Cool the Cream
تم نسخ الرابطKeep stirring the cream to prevent scorching. Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Stir in the orange blossom water and vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Assemble the Dessert
تم نسخ الرابطSpread the cream evenly over the soaked bread to create a thick, creamy layer. Cover the pan and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set properly.
- Add the Finishing Touches
تم نسخ الرابطBefore serving, top the chilled dessert with a generous layer of crushed pistachios for crunch and flavor. For the best results, prepare this dessert a day in advance and refrigerate overnight, adding the nuts just before serving to maintain their freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy!
تم نسخ الرابطSlice into portions and enjoy this perfectly sweet, creamy, and aromatic Middle Eastern dessert—ideal for special occasions or a make-ahead treat!