There’s something almost magical about a bowl of homemade soup, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day or the cozy embrace of a favorite sweater—comforting and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re battling a cold or just need a quick and easy dinner, this soup recipe is your ticket to flavor town.
(Remember that time when everyone was obsessed with sourdough? Yeah, this soup’s kind of like that, but way less work!
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375ºF and grease a 9×9″ baking pan with tahini or another oil. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and adds a nutty flavor.
- In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: semolina, flour, turmeric, and baking powder. This creates a light yellow mixture before baking.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: oil, milk, and cane sugar, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves. This forms a smooth liquid base for the batter.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth, bright yellow batter forms. Ensure there are no lumps for an even texture.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and evenly sprinkle pine nuts on top. This adds a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, checking that the pine nuts turn golden but not brown. This indicates the cake is done.
- Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack, then cut it into squares or diamond shapes. Enjoy this simple turmeric cake as a light dessert or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup oil
- 1 cup milk (can substitute with plant-based milk or water)
- 1 cup cane sugar
- Tahini for greasing the pan (or substitute with oil or butter)
- Raw pine nuts for topping (or substitute with raw almonds)
FAQ
- What makes Sfouf cake unique compared to other cakes?
- Sfouf cake stands out due to its use of turmeric, which not only gives the cake its vibrant yellow color but also adds a subtle, distinct flavor and antioxidant benefits. Additionally, the cake incorporates semolina for a nutty texture and uses tahini to coat the pan, contributing a unique flavor profile.
- Can Sfouf be made vegan?
- Yes, Sfouf can easily be made vegan by substituting the cup of milk used in the recipe with plant-based milk or water. The recipe is already egg-free and butter-free, making it simple to adapt for a vegan diet.
- What are some substitutes for ingredients in Sfouf cake?
- If you don’t have tahini, you can use oil or butter to coat the pan. For semolina, fine semolina can be used, but avoid replacing it with flour as it alters the texture significantly. Pine nuts can be substituted with raw almonds, which will roast in the oven during baking.
- How should Sfouf be stored after baking?
- Sfouf should be stored in an airtight container. It will remain fresh for about 7 days at room temperature or up to 10 days if kept in the refrigerator.
- Where can I find the ingredients for Sfouf cake?
- Ingredients like semolina and tahini can be found at Middle Eastern markets, natural-foods stores, or large supermarkets, typically in the aisle with other Middle Eastern products.
Tips
- Use tahini to coat the baking pan instead of oil or butter. This not only prevents sticking but also imparts a unique nutty flavor to the cake.
- Consider substituting the milk with a plant-based alternative or water to make the recipe fully vegan while maintaining its delightful taste and texture.
- Sprinkle raw pine nuts on top of the batter before baking. They will toast to a golden hue, providing a visual cue for the cake’s readiness and adding a nice crunchy texture.
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to a week at room temperature or ten days in the fridge.
Equipment
- 9×9″ Baking Pan – If you don’t already own a suitable baking pan, this specific size is recommended for the recipe.
- Wire Rack – Useful for cooling the cake after baking to ensure it doesn’t become soggy on the bottom.
- Mixing Bowls – While most people have mixing bowls at home, if you need a specific size or type for efficient mixing, it might be something to purchase.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for accurately measuring ingredients, especially if you lack a complete set.
