Egyptian Belila

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EGYPTIAN BELILA | WHEAT BERRIES

Yield 2

Prep time

5 Min

Cook time

45 Min

Inactive time

12 Hour

Total time

12 H & 50 M

Egyptian belila is a comforting and nourishing dish made from soft white wheat berries simmered until tender and infused with warm, lightly sweet flavors. Traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert, belila is cooked with milk, lightly sweetened with honey or sugar, and fragranced with a touch of rose water. It is commonly garnished with toasted almonds and shredded coconut, adding a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. This wholesome dish has been cherished for generations in Egypt, offering a perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and texture in every spoonful.

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Ingredients

For the Wheat Berries:

• 1 cup soft white wheat berries
• water
• approximately 3 cups milk
• rose water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• raw honey

For Garnish:

• toasted almond slices
• shredded coconut

Instructions

Prepare the Wheat Berries:

1. Soak 1 cup soft white wheat berries in water overnight until they nearly double in size and become plumper and softer.
2. Drain the soaking water before cooking.

Cook the Wheat Berries:

1. Transfer the soaked wheat berries to a pot and cover with fresh water.
2. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the wheat berries are tender.
3. Drain the cooking water and return the wheat berries to the pot.
4. Pour in approximately 3 cups milk and stir to combine.
5. Add a splash of rose water, 1 tablespoon sugar, and raw honey to taste.
6. Stir frequently to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
7. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce the heat and continue cooking until it becomes thick and creamy.

Serve:

1. Transfer the warm belila to serving bowls.
2. Garnish with toasted almond slices and shredded coconut, and enjoy.

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