Haytaliyeh: A Refreshing Lebanese Milk Pudding
Haytaliyeh is a delightful and cooling Lebanese dessert, particularly popular during the hot summer months. This unique milk pudding offers a refreshing escape from the heat with its light texture and subtle flavors. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make, Haytaliyeh is a must-try.
What sets Haytaliyeh apart is its use of *miske*, or mastic gum. This resin adds a distinctive piney aroma and a slightly chewy texture to the creamy base. Rose water and orange blossom water further enhance the aromatic profile, creating a fragrant and delicate pudding. These subtle flavors dance on the palate, leaving a lingering sense of freshness.
Typically, Haytaliyeh is made by gently heating milk with cornstarch, sugar, and the all-important mastic gum until thickened. The mixture is then poured into a shallow dish to set. Once cooled and firm, the pudding is traditionally cut into cubes.
The magic truly happens when the Haytaliyeh is served. It’s often drenched in a generous helping of simple syrup flavored with even more rose water and orange blossom water. Crushed pistachios are scattered on top, adding a welcome nutty crunch and a vibrant green color to the presentation. Some variations may also include clotted cream or fresh fruit for added richness and flavor.
Haytaliyeh is more than just a dessert; it’s a sensory experience. The smooth, cool pudding, the fragrant floral notes, the crunchy pistachios, and the sweet syrup all combine to create a harmonious and unforgettable treat. This Lebanese delight is the perfect ending to any meal and a guaranteed way to beat the summer heat. Search online for “Haytaliyeh recipe” and discover how to make this simple yet sophisticated dessert at home.