Lebanese sfouf is made with semolina. A healthy and delicious cake that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Turmeric, the key ingredient in this cake is a spice that’s widely used in China and India. Turmeric is the root of the Curcuma Longa plant. It is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for various illnesses such as headaches, toothaches, and even chest pain. Anise is an anti-oxidant that contains vitamins such as, iron, calcium, manganese and niacin, to name a few. It is used by many who suffer from heart burn as a tea substitute for it’s aromatic and soothing effect.
Click on the first image below to view a step by step slideshow:
Semolina. Yellowish in color with a finer texture.
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl except for the Anise mixture.
Whole Anise comes in packets and available at specialty stores and supermarkets in the spice aisle.
A closer look at whole anise.
Boil the water and add 2 tablespoons of whole anise in the water. Boil for a minute or two, remove from heat and let it brew until the water has cooled.
Drain the anise mixture into a bowl using a sieve. Measure 1 1/2 cups of anise mixture for the recipe.
Add the anise mixture to your bowl with the rest of the ingredients.
Pour mixture into a greased baking pan. Remember that you can use cooking spray or tahini to grease the pan. The mixture will have the consistency similar to brownie batter.
Sprinkle pine nuts or pistachios if you like as garnish. You need to add it before it is baked.
When you cut into the cake you can see the rich color of the turmeric. Serve it with a cup of coffee to your friends.
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