Mahallepi: a traditional northern cypriot dessert

Mahallepi is a dessert from the Middle East and Central Asia with a unique taste and aroma.

This sweet dessert originated in Cyprus but has its versions in neighboring Middle Eastern countries, such as Lebanon and Turkey. In Turkey and the Turkish part of Cyprus, the dessert is also known as muhallebi, muhallabia, or mahallepi.

Translated from Turkish, this name means 'boiled cream.' Another version suggests that the word 'mahallepi' is derived from the Arabic root meaning 'mixed' or 'to mix.'

• Variations
• Ingredients
• Cooking Method
• Presentation of the Dish
• Frequently Asked Questions

VARIATIONS OF MAHALLEPI

It's worth noting that different parts of the world have different interpretations of mahallepi. It can be a dough with a curd filling and butter, mastic with pistachios, or pudding. However, in Cyprus and Turkey, it refers to a jelly-like substance floating in rose water.

INGREDIENTS FOR MAHALLEPI

• milk water
• corn or rice flour, or starch
• rose water or rose syrup
• vanilla
• sugar

HOW TO PREPARE MAHALLEPI

Put 5 cups of water or milk in a pot on the stove. Place the sixth cup of water in a separate bowl and mix in the corn flour. Add to the pot and, stirring constantly, bring to a boil and thicken. Let it boil for a few minutes, stirring constantly.

Rinse 6 small bowls under cold water (they should be wet). Put a spoonful of the mixture in each wet bowl. Let it cool at room temperature, then put the bowls in the refrigerator. The next day, take a large bowl and fill it with cold water. To add extra flavor, add 4 tablespoons of rose water and 2 teaspoons of sugar to 5 cups of water before boiling.

SERVING MAHALLEPI

Take the bowls with mahallepi and flip each into the bowl with water. Serve, sprinkled with a spoon of sugar and a spoon of rose water. You can also add rose syrup. Mahallepi is best consumed the next day after preparation to preserve its freshness and texture.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MAHALLEPI AND NORTHERN CYPRIOT CUISINE

Can mahallepi be made vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe can be adapted by omitting animal products and using vegan substitutes. Hence, the recipe uses both milk and water.

What are some other unique Cypriot desserts?

It is paluze – northerners believe it came from the Ottoman Empire, although Southerners disagree. In any case, it's worth trying, here's our article on paluze. It's also interesting to note that marinated walnut is served as a dessert.

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