Description
Meghli is a traditional Lebanese spiced rice flour pudding, celebrated for its warming cinnamon and caraway flavors. This creamy dessert is thickened on the stovetop and garnished with a delightful mix of shredded coconut, walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, making it a festive and comforting treat often served in winter or at celebrations.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup white rice flour
- 3 tablespoons cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons ground caraway
- 8 cups water
Toppings
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped walnuts
- Sliced almonds
- Crushed pistachios
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium, heavy-bottomed pot, whisk together the sugar, rice flour, cinnamon, and ground caraway until blended thoroughly.
- Add Water Gradually: Slowly pour in the 8 cups of water while continuously whisking to ensure the mixture is smooth and without lumps.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil in about 5 minutes, whisking constantly to prevent the rice flour from settling or clumping at the bottom.
- Simmer and Thicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue whisking for 15 to 20 minutes until the pudding thickens to a smooth, creamy, pudding-like consistency.
- Portion the Pudding: Carefully pour the hot pudding into 8 to 12 individual serving bowls to prepare for garnishing and cooling.
- Add Toppings: Garnish each bowl with about one teaspoon each of shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, and crushed pistachios to add texture and flavor.
- Chill and Set: Let the pudding cool slightly at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours so it fully sets before serving.
Notes
- Constant whisking during cooking is critical to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference.
- For a vegan option, ensure all toppings are free of animal products (typically they are).
- Serving sizes can be adjusted by the number of individual bowls used; the recipe yields between 8 to 12 servings based on bowl size.
- Meghli is traditionally served during winter holidays and special occasions, ideal for a unique dessert offering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Lebanese