Latest news with #Levantine
Jordan News
4 days ago
- General
- Jordan News
Irresistible Jordanian Dessert: How to Make Haytaliya - Jordan News
In the heart of Jordanian cuisine lie a variety of traditional desserts that reflect the authenticity of local heritage and the generosity of Jordanian hospitality. Among these sweets, Haytaliya holds a special place in many hearts. It's a simple yet delicious dessert that can be easily prepared at home using ingredients found in any kitchen. اضافة اعلان What is Jordanian Haytaliya? Haytaliya is a type of cold dessert primarily made with milk and cornstarch. It is commonly served during holidays and special occasions or enjoyed as a light treat after a hearty meal. What sets the original Haytaliya recipe apart is its creamy texture and delicate flavor that melts in the mouth, making it a favorite among both children and adults. Origins and Significance in Jordanian Cuisine Haytaliya traces its origins back to the Levantine region, with each area offering its unique twist on the recipe. In Jordan, Haytaliya is prepared with simple ingredients and enhanced with special touches such as crushed pistachios, cream, or orange blossom water, giving it a distinctive flavor that differs from variations in neighboring countries. It is a dessert that embodies the simplicity and warmth of the Jordanian dining table. How to Make Authentic Haytaliya: Step-by-Step Recipe Ingredients: 1 liter of fresh milk 4 tablespoons of cornstarch ½ cup of sugar (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon of orange blossom water or rose water Crushed nuts for garnish (e.g., pistachios) Preparation Steps: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the milk and sugar, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a bit of cold water until smooth and lump-free. Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom or rose water. Pour the mixture into serving bowls and allow it to cool completely. Then refrigerate for at least one hour until fully set. Before serving, garnish with crushed nuts or a dollop of cream for added richness. Creative Ways to Serve Haytaliya The joy of preparing Haytaliya doesn't end with the cooking—it extends to the way it is served. You can present it in individual cups topped with crushed pistachios or shredded coconut. Some prefer to add a layer of cream or drizzle honey over the top for extra richness and sweetness. Health Benefits of Haytaliya Beyond its delightful taste, Haytaliya offers several health benefits, especially when prepared with natural, wholesome ingredients. It's a good source of energy due to the milk, which provides protein and calcium essential for bone and dental health. The cornstarch offers carbohydrates that provide a feeling of fullness and sustained energy, making it an ideal dessert for both kids and the elderly. Tips for a Perfect Haytaliya To ensure the best outcome when preparing Haytaliya, consider the following tips: Fully dissolve the cornstarch in cold water before adding to the milk to avoid lumps. Keep stirring throughout the cooking process to prevent sticking. Avoid leaving the dessert out of the fridge for long periods to maintain its firm texture. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by modifying the amount of sugar. A Creative Twist: New Flavors for Jordanian Haytaliya As tastes evolve, some people have added innovative touches to the classic Haytaliya recipe. Options include mixing in chocolate, fresh fruit, or strawberry sauce for a modern flavor profile. You can also layer it with crushed biscuits or pair it with sponge cake for a richer, more diverse dessert. Traditional and Modern Additions Despite the simplicity of the original recipe, many Jordanian families enjoy enhancing the flavor with traditional spices and seasonings. Popular additions include a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom, giving the dessert an aromatic Middle Eastern flair. Light syrup (qater) can also be added for those who prefer a sweeter version. In some regions, Haytaliya is served during festive occasions alongside seasonal fruits like figs, bananas, or strawberries. These simple touches transform the dessert into a refreshing and unique experience. How to Make Haytaliya Healthier for Children Many Jordanian mothers prefer adding nutritional value to Haytaliya when preparing it for their children. Using full-fat milk can provide essential vitamins and calcium. Replacing refined sugar with a touch of natural honey and adding finely ground nuts can enhance both flavor and health benefits. Can Haytaliya Be Made Vegan? Absolutely. Haytaliya can be easily adapted to suit a vegan diet by substituting cow's milk with plant-based alternatives such as almond, coconut, or oat milk. While the taste might slightly differ, the creamy consistency remains. You can also use coconut sugar or any natural sweetener instead of white sugar. If you're trying this recipe for the first time, it's best to start with a small batch to adjust the texture and flavor to your family's taste. Over time, it may become a staple dessert for every gathering. A Taste of Jordanian Heritage Haytaliya remains one of the simplest yet most cherished Jordanian desserts, often tied to family memories and authentic Arab hospitality. Preparing it at home doesn't require much effort or fancy ingredients—just milk, starch, and a touch of love to create a dessert served with a smile. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your creative flair, Haytaliya will always be a symbol of rich flavor and unforgettable memories.
CairoScene
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
FSNP's Upper Deck Lounge Might Be Cairo's Most Polished Levantine Spot
At Upper Deck Lounge, Levantine cooking isn't romanticised or dressed up in nostalgia. It's calibrated and precisely what it should be. Jul 18, 2025 On a Cairo rooftop where the air seems to thin just enough to carry the scent of charcoal and cardamom, the Four Seasons' Upper Deck Lounge has quietly recast itself as an ode to the Eastern Mediterranean. The new Levantine menu, unveiled this July, reads like a well-travelled dinner guest - someone with good taste, impeccable manners, and a nostalgic memory of Beirut before traffic, Damascus before dust. From the fifth floor terrace, the city performs its nightly shimmer. Below, the Nile gurgles and mutters; above, a pool glows like an expensive secret. And in between, plates begin to arrive. Mezze, the opening act, comes in confident little bowls: pistachio labneh made silkier by grilled olives, smoked eggplant ajami that tastes like someone told baba ghanoush it could dream bigger, and a tomato kasoundi hummus that borders on flirty. Heartier fare follows with deliberate drama: shish tawouk, burnished from the grill, comes skewered like a declaration; lamb cutlets with freekeh arrive tender and smoky, and lamb chops threaten to unseat Cairo's grill hierarchy. The manakish are soft, the wraps streetwise, and the drinks are politely persuasive. At Upper Deck Lounge, Levantine cooking isn't romanticised or dressed up in nostalgia. It's calibrated and precisely what it should be at sunset, when Cairo glows like an ember and dinner feels like a pause in time.
Time Business News
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
Arabian Bridal Dress: Elegance, Heritage, and Royal Splendor
When it comes to weddings, few styles rival the opulence, mystique, and beauty of an Arabian bridal dress. Deeply rooted in rich traditions yet gracefully embracing modern trends, Arabian bridal fashion is an exquisite blend of cultural heritage and contemporary luxury. From luxurious fabrics and intricate embroidery to regal silhouettes and shimmering details, the Arabian bridal dress is a true statement of elegance, power, and grace. In this article, we'll explore the history, features, popular styles, colors, accessories, and modern interpretations of the Arabian Bridal Dress—as well as tips for brides looking to wear one on their big day. The Arabian bridal dress isn't just about fashion—it's a cultural expression. It reflects centuries of tradition, family values, and regional identity while highlighting the bride's status and beauty. These dresses often include: Heavily embroidered bodices and skirts Rich materials like velvet, silk, chiffon, or tulle like velvet, silk, chiffon, or tulle Flowing silhouettes with dramatic trains or capes with dramatic trains or capes Exquisite beadwork , gold or silver threading, and hand-sewn sequins , gold or silver threading, and hand-sewn sequins Elegant veils or headpieces to complete the look The goal is to make the bride appear like a queen—graceful, powerful, and radiant. The Arabian Peninsula is home to diverse cultures, and bridal attire can vary widely across countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, and Bahrain. In Saudi Arabia, many brides wear elaborate, floor-length dresses in gold, silver, or traditional green with heavy embellishments. Some brides opt for a white gown for the reception, while a more traditional dress is worn for pre-wedding events. The Emirati bridal look is known for its lavish style—featuring multiple dress changes, jewelry layering, and traditional abayas or kaftans worn during henna nights. Many Arabian weddings are also influenced by Moroccan or Levantine styles, with the bride wearing kaftans, takchitas, or embroidered two-piece sets rich in detail and history. Arabian bridal dresses are known for their use of rich fabrics such as: Velvet – perfect for winter weddings – perfect for winter weddings Silk and satin – offering smooth elegance – offering smooth elegance Chiffon and georgette – for lightweight draping – for lightweight draping Tulle and organza – ideal for voluminous gowns The embroidery and handwork are often the most eye-catching features: Gold and silver zari Beads, crystals, and sequins Pearls, stones, and rhinestones Every stitch tells a story—of tradition, craftsmanship, and celebration. In many Arabian cultures, modesty is essential. That's why bridal dresses often include: Long sleeves High necklines Full-length gowns or dresses with overcoats (bishts) or capes Despite the coverage, designers find creative ways to incorporate allure and elegance through tailoring, layering, and design cuts. A long, flowing dress with wide sleeves, often belted at the waist and heavily embroidered. Kaftans are a favorite for Arabian Bridal Dress like henna or engagement parties. Originating from Morocco but widely embraced in Arabian bridal fashion, it includes a two-layered gown—an inner dress and a sheer, embroidered outer layer. Perfect for formal receptions. Inspired by Western bridal gowns but designed with Arabic opulence—think ballgown silhouette with Arabic embroidery, long sleeves, and dramatic veils. These combine the modesty of the traditional abaya with bridal embellishments and luxury design, perfect for religious or conservative ceremonies. While white is a classic and commonly chosen color, Arabian Bridal Dress often celebrate a broader range of hues: Gold and Champagne: Reflect luxury, royalty, and celebration Reflect luxury, royalty, and celebration Emerald Green: A traditional and auspicious color, especially in Saudi Arabia A traditional and auspicious color, especially in Saudi Arabia Deep Red or Maroon: Symbolizes love, passion, and heritage Symbolizes love, passion, and heritage Ivory, Silver, and Rose Gold: Modern alternatives for subtle elegance Modern alternatives for subtle elegance Royal Blue or Purple: Often used for pre-wedding or cultural events Some brides even wear multi-colored dresses or opt for a wardrobe change between the ceremony and reception. Arabian brides often wear long veils, sometimes embroidered or edged with crystals. These may be paired with tiaras, head chains (mathapatti), or traditional scarves. Layered and opulent: Gold bangles, necklaces, and rings Chandelier earrings Hand chains (hathphool) and waist belts Nose rings in some cultures Intricate henna patterns on the bride's hands and feet are a cultural essential, often applied during pre-wedding festivities. While many Arabian brides remain rooted in tradition, there's a growing trend toward fusion bridal wear, combining: Western silhouettes with Arabic embroidery with Minimalist styles with cultural symbolism with Bridal jumpsuits or separates for pre-wedding events Many designers now offer custom-made bridal dresses where brides can blend heritage with modern fashion sensibilities. Popular designers specializing in Arabian-style bridal wear include: Elie Saab Zuhair Murad Huda Al Nuaimi Rami Kadi Amato Couture These designers are globally recognized for their Arabesque aesthetic, intricate embroidery, and storytelling through fabric. Start early – Custom embroidery and tailoring take time. – Custom embroidery and tailoring take time. Stay true to your roots – Celebrate your heritage with pride. – Celebrate your heritage with pride. Try multiple styles – Don't be afraid to experiment before the big day. – Don't be afraid to experiment before the big day. Balance comfort with drama – You'll be wearing it for hours. – You'll be wearing it for hours. Match your accessories carefully – Over-accessorizing can overpower the gown. Most importantly, choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and uniquely you. An Arabian bridal dress is not just a garment—it's a living tapestry of culture, identity, and celebration. Whether you choose a traditional kaftan or a modern princess gown, the beauty of Arabian bridal fashion lies in its ability to honor the past while embracing the present. With flowing fabrics, dazzling detail, and graceful modesty, the Arabian bridal look continues to enchant and inspire brides all over the world. If you're planning your wedding and looking for something that captures both cultural richness and modern glamour, an Arabian bridal dress may be exactly what you've been dreaming of. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
UAE Moments
12-07-2025
- Business
- UAE Moments
Levantine Women Are Reinventing Side Hustles in 2025
I am sure you have felt it — that massive shift in how we live, work, and create in the years following 2020. When it comes to the women of the Levant, they never retreat. Instead, they have responded to these changes by redefining what it means to work, earn, and thrive. A Quiet Revolution For decades, side hustles in the Levant were often seen as hobby-level endeavors or financial stopgaps; they were even looked down upon. Today, they're something more: a form of resilience, expression, and even quiet rebellion. Many Levantine women are turning personal skills into income streams that challenge both economic instability and societal expectations. From handmade goods to remote content creation and online teaching, these women are creating micro-businesses that fit into their lives on their terms. Why Now? The post-2020 economy, fueled by inflation, job scarcity, and the normalization of remote work, pushed many to explore new avenues. But for women in the Levant, it also unlocked opportunities that were previously inaccessible or frowned upon. Cultural barriers are shifting. The digital space feels safer and more flexible than traditional work environments. And many women are choosing to build online identities where their creativity and labor are finally recognized and valued. Not Just Income, But An Identity What makes this shift so powerful is that it's not just about money. These side hustles are deeply tied to identity and purpose. Women are reviving cultural crafts, telling personal stories, and building communities. The lines between work and self-expression are beautifully blurred. A woman selling handmade crochet bags in Latakia isn't just running a business, she's preserving a tradition, building a brand, and showing the world that value doesn't always come from a corporate title or a 9-to-5. The Challenges Are Real Of course, it's not all smooth. Many still face limited access to digital tools, unsupportive family structures, or unstable internet. Algorithms don't favor everyone equally. And let's not forget the emotional labor of doing all this while still fulfilling traditional roles. But even in the face of those obstacles, Levantine women are adapting. They're forming online support networks, learning new skills, and proving that resilience isn't just survival, it's creative reinvention. Looking Ahead The Levant has always been a region of beauty, conflict, complexity, and creativity. Women here are showing how side hustles can be a form of quiet power and reshaping local economies and personal futures alike. This is more than a trend; it's a movement. And it's only just beginning.
Arab News
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
An anthem for unspoken love: Zeyne discusses her latest release, ‘Hilwa'
DHAHRAN: Palestinian-Jordanian artist Zeyne is here for her close-up — and she's bringing the inspirational women in her family along. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ Zeyne's latest single 'Hilwa' dropped this week and the artwork — shot by Zaid Allozi — shows three women interlocked by their braided hair. 'The image shows three generations — me, my mother, and my grandmother — all connected by one continuous braid. It's a symbol of inheritance; the quiet strength and love passed from one woman to the next,' Zeyne tells Arab News. 'The braid holds the kind of love that isn't always spoken, but is deeply felt and remembered.' The 27-year-old is using her music to reclaim narrative, identity and joy — singing of Arab womanhood in its most defiant, soulful and cinematic form. 'We shot (the artwork) in a handmade mudbrick house in the Jordan Valley, built using traditional Levantine methods. These homes — found across Palestine, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon — aren't just sustainable, they carry memory. They connect us to land, to lineage, and to something deeper,' Zeyne says. 'Hilwa' is an uplifting anthem released via Saudi-based MDLBEAST Records, in partnership with Zeyne's own label, Scarab Records. 'When we saw the vision Zeyne and her team had, it was a no brainer, we were ready to jump right in and help amplify what was already there and build together towards a sustainable, long-running, global project stemming from the heart of the MENA region,' Talal Albahiti, COO and head of talent at MDLBEAST, tells Arab News. 'MDLBEAST Records always champions the upcoming hard workers and visionaries, and Zeyne exemplifies these qualities perfectly.' Following Zeyne's 2024 hit 'Asli Ana,' which reimagined Arab rhythmic traditions through a futuristic lens, 'Hilwa' pays homage to her mother and grandmother, whose love and wisdom deeply shaped her sense of identity. 'While 'Asli Ana' was about resistance, 'Hilwa' is softer,' she says. Through Zeyne's reflective lyrics and emotional vocal delivery, 'Hilwa' explores how beauty and self-worth are inherited — not just genetically, but through stories, memories, and values passed down by generations of Arab women. 'You're so beautiful and no one can say otherwise,' she sings at one point. Born Zein Sajdi in Amman in 1997, Zeyne was raised in a household where music and culture were key. Her father was a record collector, her mother led a dabke troupe, and her sister trained as a classical pianist. Zeyne began performing aged five and was already writing her own lyrics in her teens. She studied sociology and media communications at the University of Sussex in the UK, but the COVID-19 pandemic redirected her path. Returning to Amman in 2020, she turned her full attention to music — writing, recording and developing her distinct sound. Since the release of her 2021 debut single, 'Minni Ana,' Zeyne has carved a singular lane in Arab pop — merging traditional Arabic sounds with modern, genre-defying production. Since then, she has released several acclaimed singles, collaborated with artists including Palestinian singer-songwriter Saint Levant, and written for fellow Jordanian-Palestinian musician Issam Alnajjar, Lebanese-Canadian singer-songwriter Massari, and the acclaimed Chilean-Palestinian star Elyanna. With more than 46 million streams across various platforms, Zeyne's music has become a touchstone for Arab youth globally, offering a sound that is intimate, cinematic and emotionally resonant. Her boundary-pushing sound and evocative vocals have established her as one of the region's most important cultural voices. Earlier this year, she launched a three-stop regional mini tour, 'The Golden-Hour Run,' that included a landmark performance at the OffLimits Festival in the UAE and stadium appearances as a special guest on Ed Sheeran's Mathematics Tour in Qatar and Bahrain, where she performed to over 65,000 people. She became the first female artist from the Levant to appear on the globally renowned music platform COLORS with her song 'Ma Bansak,' and a viral performance in collaboration with Bottega Veneta blurred the lines between fashion, music, and Palestinian resistance. A post shared by zeyne | زين (@zeyne) But Zeyne's influence stretches far beyond music. As an EQUAL Arabia ambassador, she lit up Times Square in New York City, solidifying her status as an emerging symbol of contemporary Arab identity and woman empowerment. Her inclusion in the DAZED Global 100 further cemented her status as a fearless voice reshaping representation and storytelling in and beyond the region. 'Hilwa' captures all of that—vulnerability, defiance, and a deep sense of generational continuity. On Instagram, she wrote that the song stems from an assembly line of greatness, and is 'a love letter to all the women in my life — my mother, my grandmother and even my younger self — you are beautiful, and no words can say otherwise.' This summer, Zeyne brings that message to the stage. She will perform in London on July 19 and 20, Paris on July 22, and Jerash on July 28, before heading to Saudi Arabia for back-to-back concerts in Riyadh on Aug. 7 and Jeddah on Aug. 8.
