Mediterranean desserts have a dedicated fanbase, and all it takes is one bite to be transported to the shores of the coast. Though authentic Mediterranean desserts and ingredients are difficult to find, they are not entirely impossible. If you are in Raleigh, Al Baraka Market & Grill has you covered with delicious and authentic Mediterranean desserts that will bring you endless joy! Keep on reading to discover the best Mediterranean desserts in Raleigh!
Baklava
Coming in at number 1 is baklava. This iconic Mediterranean dessert is famous for its intricate layers of phyllo dough with a buttery, nutty filling.
Baklava comprises layers of phyllo dough with pistachios or walnuts, generously drizzled with honey syrup. Also, it often has a hint of cinnamon and lemon juice. If you haven’t already tasted baklava, you are missing out on a symphony of flavors with crispy phyllo and a rich, sweet filling.
Baklava is perfect for any occasion – be it for a grand celebration or a sweet snack. If you are in Raleigh looking for some Mediterranean desserts near you, Al Baraka offers some of the best baklava in town. Enjoy it there, or order from the catering menu to share it with your family and friends.
Making Baklava at Home
Feeling inspired to create this dessert at home? You will need ingredients like phyllo dough, melted butter, sugar, honey, and chopped nuts. You can find these ingredients at Al Baraka Market & Grill. Here’s a quick guide on how to make baklava at home:
- Firstly, prepare your oven for baking by setting the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Then, layer sheets of phyllo dough and brush each layer with melted butter.
- Next, mix sugar and cinnamon with the chopped nuts and spread them over the phyllo layers.
- Continue layering the phyllo and nut mixture and finish with phyllo on top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Finally, drizzle some honey syrup on top.
Kunafa
The kunafa dessert from the Middle Eastern Kunafa dessert has recently gone viral worldwide. This dessert is made of thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with a creamy filling, often made with a mix of cheese and whipped cream. The contrast of the crispy pastry with the rich, creamy filling makes kunafa an experience nobody seems to get enough of.
Kunafa is typically topped with crushed pistachios and is best served warm, making it a decadent comfort food. The fresh and authentic kunafa at Al Baraka offers the perfect blend of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more.
Making Kunafa at Home
If you want to make kunafa at home, you will need ingredients like shredded phyllo dough, melted butter, and a filling of your choice (cheese, custard, ricotta, or Greek yogurt). Here’s how you can prepare kunafa at home:
- Firstly, prepare your oven for baking by setting the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Then, mix the shredded phyllo with melted butter and press it into a baking dish.
- Add a layer of the creamy filling of your choice, then cover it with more phyllo.
- Bake it until it is golden and crispy.
- Prepare the syrup by heating some water in a saucepan. Add in the sugar (depending on how sweet you want the syrup to be) and let it cook until it gets slightly thick as the sugar dissolves.
- Finally, soak the baked kunafa in syrup and top it off with toppings of your choice.
Warbat
Though not as popular, warbat is an equally delicious Mediterranean dessert of phyllo dough filled with creamy custard. This dessert is similar to baklava in its layers. It is soaked in sugar syrup after baking, giving it a delightful sweetness and flaky texture.
Warbat is also often flavored with rose water or orange blossom, capturing the fragrant essence of Mediterranean sweets. At Al Baraka, you can find authentic warbat, which is a must-try if you are looking for authentic Mediterranean desserts in Raleigh.
Making Warbat at home
If you feel creative and want to try making warbat at home, we’ve got you covered! All you need are simple ingredients like phyllo dough, cream or custard filling, and syrup. Warbat is a relatively simple dish to make, so here is a brief guide on how to make it:
- Firstly, prepare your oven for baking by setting the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Then, layer phyllo dough in a baking dish, and add a layer of a creamy filling of your choice in between.
- Repeat the layers and bake until golden.
- Soak with as much syrup as you like to customize the sweetness.
- Finally, garnish with a drizzle of rose water or orange blossom for a Mediterranean touch.
Conclusion
Kunafa, baklava, and warbat are just a few of the many great Mediterranean desserts. These desserts are unique delicacies of the coast that reflect the region’s traditions and are definitely a must-try for anyone who wants to experience the cultures of a region through its food.
Al Baraka is your go-to place for Mediterranean desserts in Raleigh. You can get the fresh desserts in-house or grab the ingredients to make them at home if you’re feeling creative. Head over to Al Baraka now to satisfy your sweet tooth with the best Mediterranean desserts!