Basbousa

This is a traditional middle eastern dessert. Semolina is the main ingredient.

Preheat oven to 350f degrees.

Melt butter , allow to cool to room temperature.

Combine sugar and buttermilk in a large bowl.

Combine the semolina , vanilla , baking powder and baking soda in a separate bowl.

Add semolina mixture to buttermilk mixture , mix well , then add melted butter , and mix well.

Spray an 11x7 inch pan with cooking spray , pour in the mixture.

You may also use a 13x9 inch pan , and bake for 25 minutes instead of 30.

Let sit for 20 minutes.

Bake for 30 minutes , pour sugar syrup over it while still warm.

This is usually served with tea or coffee.

------ sugar syrup ----------.

Combine sugar , water and juice of half a lemon in a saucepan.

Bring to a boil , reduce heat and allow to simmer for 20-25 minutes , mixture should thicken when it cools.

butter, sugar, buttermilk, semolina, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, water, lemon, juice of