Latest news with #UmmAli
BBC News
29-03-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Om Ali: An 'unforgettable' sweet with a sinister history
Alamy As millions of people break their Ramadan fast, many believers around the world reach for a wildly popular dish tied to an unbelievable legend. On a hot and sultry August evening in 2011, I sat at a table in my favourite restaurant in Kuwait City, facing the calm waters of the Persian Gulf, waiting for my iftar platter to arrive. The elaborate meal – consisting of fresh juices, stuffed dates, vegetable samosas, lamb pilaf, shish tawook (a marinated chicken kebab), local bread, coffee and desserts – was delicious. Yet, what still lingers on my tongue and in my mind more than a decade later isn't the delightful crunch of the samosa or the sapid juiciness of the shish tawook but the sweet taste of Om Ali, a simple-but-flavourful Egyptian dessert with a surprisingly dark history. Flash forward to 2025 and I'm standing in a small confectionery store in downtown Cairo, sharing another bowl of Om Ali, this time with my 12-year-old son, and I still can't stop drooling over the dish, despite having tried it in every Middle Eastern city I've visited during the last 14 years. Soumya Gayatri "A good bowl of Om Ali is unforgettable," says Nermine Mansour, a former Egyptian diplomat-turned-food writer and founder of the food blog, Chez Nermine. "It is the perfect balance of flavours, textures and nutrition – the star of Egyptian cuisine," she adds. Om Ali (also known as Umm Ali or Oum Ali) is a decadent bread pudding made from spice-infused milk, puff pastry, roasted nuts and sugar. Traditionally baked in a deep clay dish for about 20-25 minutes, it has a crunchy, caramelised coating at the top and a silky, creamy layer at the bottom, giving the dessert a unique texture. According to Mansour, the creaminess of the milk, the juiciness of the soaked puff pastry, the crunch from the nuts and the sweet earthiness lent by the clay pot come together to give Om Ali a rare appeal, making it one of the most popular desserts in Egypt. Where to find Om Ali Although Om Ali is available at all major cafes and bakeries in Egypt throughout the year, the variety and volume are staggering during Ramadan. Some of the best places to sample authentic Om Ali in Cairo are El Malky, Simonds Bakery & Café and Nola Bakery. Om Ali is also a favourite across the Middle East, particularly during Ramadan and Eid celebrations when dessert consumption skyrockets. Earlier this year, B Laban, one of the fastest-growing Middle Eastern dessert companies, posted a video of Om Ali on Instagram and thousands of people quickly swooned over it. "I get why Om Ali is so popular. It is affordable, easy to digest and can be prepared quickly using ingredients available at home, making it equally accessible to the rich and the poor," says Moustafa Omran, an Egyptologist and my local tour guide in Cairo. "Despite the fame of this dish, a question always lingers in the minds of [Om Ali] lovers: who is Ali and who is his mother, after whom this dish is named?" Omran points out, drawing my attention to the dessert's name. Alamy With my mouth stuffed with soaked puff pastry and my mind going nuts over the creaming pudding at El Malky, one of the most famous dessert chains serving Om Ali in Cairo, I cannot help but agree. Om Ali, which means "Mother of Ali" in Arabic, is an admittedly unusual name for a dessert. Yet, what's even more unusual, as many Egyptians tell me, is that it is rumoured to be named after a murderer. Om Ali was the first wife of the first sultan of the Mamluk dynasty, which ruled Egypt from the mid-13th to early 16th Centuries. In 1250, her then-husband, Izz Al-Din Aybak overthrew the Ayyubid dynasty and established the Mamluk reign in Egypt, marrying Shajar Al-Durr, the last Ayyubid queen, to solidify his rule. The marriage was merely a political union and Al-Durr had frequent disagreements with Aybak before finally deciding to murder him as he took a bath. In a bizarre turn of events, Om Ali decided to avenge her husband's death by beating Al-Durr to death with wooden clogs. After killing Al-Durr, Om Ali instructed her cook to bake something special to commemorate her success and the eponymous dessert was allegedly born and named in her honour. Alamy As surprised as I am to learn that Om Ali's origins may be rooted in murder and betrayal, deeper research reveals that the dish's origins are even more complex, and still baffle historians. "There are no historical records that tell us if the dessert Om Ali is connected to the murder of Al-Durr," says Dr Mennat-Allah El Dorry, a food historian at the American University in Cairo. "Although we know for sure that Queen Om Ali killed Al-Durr, we do not have any concrete evidence linking the dessert to the murder… I have absolutely no idea how the narrative came about and how the dessert got its name." World's Table World's Table"smashes the kitchen ceiling" by changing the way the world thinks about food, through the past, present and future. Further, the oldest recorded recipe for Om Ali comes from a more recent 19th-Century Arabic cookbook titled Kitāb nasị̄hạt al-anām fī hụsn al-tạʻām, which adds another layer of mystery to the dish's origins and nomenclature. Yet, according to Mansour, the 13th-Century Om Ali narrative may hold some truth. "Egyptians have eaten a thin phyllo bread called roqaq since ancient times," she says. According to the book The Pharaoh's Kitchen by Magda Mehdawy and Amr Hussein, roqaq has been a staple at Nubian banquets since the 3rd Century BCE. "So, it is quite possible that Om Ali's cook used the leftover roqaq in the palace and baked it with milk and nuts to create the iconic dessert that we all love today." Alamy Despite the dessert's muddled origins, its connection to the killer of Al-Durr live on in Egyptian popular culture. Today, the name Om Ali is synonymous with good triumphing over evil – in this case, the unjust queen. "We love it because of its association with the story of the victory of justice over injustice," says Omran. "Also, we [Egyptians] love stories; therefore, this dish has gained immense popularity," he explains. The legend continues to endure in social media, food blogs and television, such as the 2004 popular drama series Abbas Al Abiad Fi Al Yawm Al Aswad, in which famous Egyptian actor Yehia El-Fakharany recounts the legend of Om Ali to his onscreen family. The popularity of Om Ali swells during Ramadan, as sugar-based desserts take centre stage in iftar meals around the globe, providing instant nourishment to a fasting body that has run out of glucose. "In addition to sugar, Om Ali contains protein and calcium from milk, vitamins and fibre from nuts, and carbohydrates from bread," Mansour points out. "That's why, [Om Ali] is a guilty pleasure you can easily justify. It feels like a warm hug in a clay pot filled with goodness," she adds. (A calorie analysis reveals that Om Ali has fewer calories compared to other Middle Eastern desserts like kunefe and baklava.) Besides, Om Ali is an easy dessert to make. "It requires only simple ingredients found in every Egyptian kitchen," Mansour adds. Depending on the size of the iftar parties, this dish can be scaled up or down, making it a favourite among chefs and home cooks during Ramadan and Eid. Alamy Om Ali holds a special place in Egyptian cuisine because it is simple, nutritious and evokes feelings of warmth and goodness. "The creaminess of the pudding, the crunch of roasted nuts and the story of the victory of good over bad – a bowl of Om Ali just feels right and makes me happy after a long day of fasting," says Omran. -- If you liked this story, sign up for The Essential List newsletter – a handpicked selection of features, videos and can't-miss news, delivered to your inbox twice a week. For more Travel stories from the BBC, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. World's Table Food Heritage Features
Al Etihad
26-03-2025
- Al Etihad
‘Iftar brings us together:' Expats remember cherished delicacies that offer taste of home
27 Mar 2025 01:30 RAJIVE CHERIAN (ABU DHABI)For expats in the UAE, the Holy Month of Ramadan brings back memories of home and, come iftar time, many couldn't help but long for the taste and aroma they grew up with back in their countries. Now in their second home, many residents try to recreate their favourite dishes and share them with friends who became family over the years. 'More than the food, it is having iftar with friends that make every gathering much sweeter,' Egyptian expat Hammad Khalil told Aletihad. As the air echoes with the call to prayer, iftar meals — be they grand or modest — await to be served after day-long fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Although iftar traditions vary across the world, it's a time when spiritual fulfilment meets the symphony of taste, bringing gratitude and the feeling of conversation with Aletihad, members of the expat community recalled the cherished delicacies that take centre stage at iftar gatherings back home. Stuffed Pigeons and Molokhia For Khalil, the first food that comes to mind when thinking of iftar is molokhia, the iconic green soup made from jute leaves. It can accompany rice with chicken, duck, or meat.'Of course, stuffed pigeon as the main course and Umm Ali as the dessert are the major highlights,' he stuffing for the pigeon-based dish, known as 'hamam mahshi', includes rice mixed with onion and it comes to dessert, the legendary Umm Ali reigns supreme, he said. This traditional bread pudding, baked in a clay pot, is a blend of puff pastry, roasted nuts, spiced milk, sugar, and raisins. Barbusa, semolina cake soaked in syrup, and Qatayef, mini pancakes filled with crispy nuts or cheese and drizzled with sugary syrup, are also among the favourites for dessert. Matoke For Shamila Owomugisha from Uganda, it's Matoke, a spicy green banana mash, that is the main attraction for is steamed green bananas later mashed in banana leaves and served with stew, fish, egg, meat or cassava cooked with beans, and Irish potatoes mixed with meat are also iftar favourites, she dessert, fruits gain prominence, mainly pawpaw, mangoes, watermelon, and jackfruit.'Iftar brings us family members all together in gratitude, and sometimes, our neighbours join us, too. For us, it's the time to pray for forgiveness, especially during Laylat Al Qadr — one of the last nights of Ramadan — and renew our faith,' she added. Thari Kanji and Pathiri The simplicity of thari kanji distributed at mosques at the end of fasting is wafting through the mind of Saeed Manikoth Thangal, an expat from the south Indian state of Kerala. Thari kanji is a creamy porridge made of semolina, milk, and coconut milk. It has numerous varities, too, but all of them are topped with ghee-infused cashew, shallots, and households, it's pathiri — pancakes made of rice flour, served with spicy beef or chicken curry — that is the signature part of the iftar meal, he said. 'Beyond food, it's the time for the spiritual discipline of fasting, it makes us aware of hunger and the importance of sharing with others. It's also the time for Zakat, the Islamic practice of donating 2.5% of a Muslim individual's cash, gold, silver, cattle, farms and rentable assets to charity.'
CairoScene
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
La Gourmandise Serves a Classic Iftar at Four Seasons First Residence
Classic dishes, turned up a notch. Mar 25, 2025 At La Gourmandise, Iftar isn't trying to be anything but what it should be: big, familiar, and built for appetite. The First Mall Giza space leans into the season with glowing lanterns, warm lights, and a buffet designed to take its time. It starts simple—lentil soup, crisp salads, and a mezze spread that covers all the bases. Then, the heavy hitters: grilled meats, slow-braised stews, and a carving station that makes pacing yourself a challenge. The dessert table sticks to what works—kunafa, basbousa, Umm Ali—no unnecessary twists, just the classics done fine print is just as generous. Kids under six eat free, six to twelve get half off, and everyone else gets a plate that's always full. For more information, please visit
Khaleej Times
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Ramadan Nights at JA Beach Hotel: It's a feast under the stars
Step into the enchanting world of Ramadan at JA Beach Hotel's Palmito Garden, where the beachfront transforms into a stunning, lantern-lit oasis. A grand 'Ramadan Nights' display welcomes you, setting the tone for an evening filled with tradition, warmth, and indulgence. The beautifully arranged Majlis seating, golden-hued décor, and twinkling fairy lights create an intimate and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect place for meaningful gatherings. As you dine, the gentle melodies of live, peaceful music add a touch of magic to the air, making every moment feel special. But let's talk about the real star of the night, the food. The Iftar Buffet is an absolute feast of flavors, textures, and aromas. Start with the lavish salad bar, where crisp fattoush, creamy hummus, smoky moutabal, and zesty tabbouleh awaken your palate. The hot and cold mezze selection is a delight, featuring golden kibbeh, flaky sambousek, crispy spring rolls, and cheese rolls, each bite packed with rich flavors. For mains, the slow-cooked lamb ouzi is a standout, melting in your mouth with every bite. The grilled seafood is perfectly seasoned, and the spiced chicken tagine brings a comforting warmth. Families will love the dedicated kids' corner, offering pasta, crispy fries, and nuggets to keep the little ones happy. And then comes dessert, pure indulgence. From creamy Umm Ali and rich chocolate mousse to decadent mango cake, delicate baklava, and velvety cream-based mousses, the selection is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you crave a sweet, syrupy treat or a light, fruity delight, the spread has something for everyone. For those arriving later, the Regular Dinner Buffet (8.30pm to 10.30pm) ensures no one misses out, while the à la carte suhoor (9pm to midnight) offers a more relaxed experience with manakeesh, Arabic coffee, and traditional sweets. With pricing at Dh280 per adult on weekends and Dh260 per adult on weekdays, JA Beach Hotel's Palmito Garden delivers a full-package Ramadan experience, from breathtaking décor and peaceful live music to an unforgettable dining journey. Half-price for kids and corporate/group rates make it the ideal spot for families, friends, and colleagues to gather, reflect, and indulge in the beauty of the season.
Arab News
02-03-2025
- Arab News
Movenpick Hotel Riyadh offers a distinctive Ramadan Experience
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Movenpick Hotel Riyadh invites guests to immerse themselves in a celebration of tradition, hospitality, and culinary excellence. The hotel seamlessly blends warm Arabian hospitality with a refined setting, offering a thoughtfully curated Ramadan experience centered around its exquisitely designed Ramadan tent. This inviting space harmoniously integrates rich cultural heritage with contemporary elegance, creating an atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of the holy month. Designed to provide a serene and immersive Ramadan ambiance, the tent is adorned with intricate Arabic patterns, soft ambient lighting, and carefully arranged seating areas, ensuring an intimate yet social setting for families, friends, and corporate gatherings. The carefully crafted details create an environment that embodies both authenticity and sophistication, making it an ideal destination for meaningful Ramadan moments. At the heart of the experience, where guests can indulge in a meticulously prepared iftar and sahoor buffet, featuring an extensive selection of flavors catering to diverse palates. Traditional Arabic delicacies such as fragrant kabsa, succulent mixed grills, and freshly baked sambousek take center stage, complemented by an array of international gourmet creations. The experience is further elevated with an oriental dessert station, offering an exquisite assortment of kunafa, Umm Ali, and other beloved Middle Eastern sweets. To enhance the dining journey, live cooking stations allow guests to engage with expert chefs as they prepare signature dishes fresh to order, adding an interactive and dynamic touch to the feast. To celebrate the spirit of togetherness during Ramadan, Movenpick Hotel Riyadh presents exclusive early booking discounts, as well as customized packages for corporate events and group gatherings. For individual guests, bespoke Ramadan offerings include an opulent buffet experience starting at SR340 for iftar and SR250 for sahoor (excluding VAT). Children under six dine for free, while children aged 6 to 12 enjoy a 50 percent discount, making it an ideal destination for families.
