Befintlige

Befintlige, also known as Syrian Befinte, is a Middle Eastern dessert made with a few simple ingredients such as almonds, semolina flour, and sugar. The ingredients are typically mixed together with a sweet syrup, often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water, to create a distinctive taste and aroma.

The preparation of befintlige involves grinding almonds into a fine powder and then mixing it with semolina flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Hot water is then added to the mixture to create a dough, which is kneaded until it becomes smooth and pliable. The dough is then shaped into small balls or ovals and flattened to form a flat surface.

In a separate pan, the sweet syrup is made by boiling sugar and water together to create a thick liquid. The syrup is traditionally flavored with rose or orange blossom water to give it a distinctive flavor and aroma. The flattened benefint plugs are then cooked in the syrup until they are golden brown.

Befintlige is often served as a sweet dessert or snack in Middle Eastern countries, particularly during special occasions and celebrations. It is also a popular treat during Lent and Easter in some Christian communities. The dessert's sweet flavor and crispy texture make it a beloved treat for both children and adults.

The origins of befintlige are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the Levant region, which includes countries such as Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan. The dessert has been a part of Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries and has been shaped by the region's rich cultural and culinary traditions.