Indulge in a slice of Greece with the irresistible Samali, a traditional semolina cake drenched in sweet syrup that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean! This delightful dessert is not only a feast for the senses but also a simple yet rewarding recipe that promises to impress your family and friends. With its unique blend of semolina, yogurt, and almonds, this cake is a perfect balance of moistness and flavor. Ready to discover the secrets behind this classic Greek treat? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen the heart of your home!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of semolina, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1 cup of yogurt, 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of 1 lemon until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped almonds into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Once the syrup is boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- When the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate.
- While the cake is still warm, pour the cooled syrup over the top, allowing it to soak in. Let the cake absorb the syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve the Samali warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional chopped almonds if desired. Enjoy your delicious traditional Greek semolina cake!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh eggs. Organic yogurt can also enhance the taste of your Samali cake.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your cake. It’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let it Soak: Allow the cake to absorb the syrup for at least 30 minutes after pouring it over. This step is crucial for achieving that signature moistness and flavor.
- Garnish Creatively: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your Samali with additional chopped almonds or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve Warm or Room Temperature: While delicious at any temperature, serving the cake warm enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting dessert experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
