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–+ servings
a bowl with pudding dessert topped with pomegranate syrup and chopped nuts.
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Israeli Malabi Recipe

A milk pudding drizzle with sweet syrup and topped with different toppings.
Course Dessert
Cuisine Mediterranean
Keyword malabi
Prep Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 people
Author Dikla Levy Frances

Ingredients

For the Pudding

  • 3 Cups Whole milk (720ml)
  • 1 Cup Heavy cream (240ml)
  • 1/3 Cup Honey (120g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Rose water, optional
  • 6 Tablespoons Cornstarch (54g)

For the syrup and toppings

  • 1/2 Cup 100% pomegranate juice (120ml)
  • 1/3 Cup Sugar (70g)
  • Choose: Chopped pistachios, shredded coconuts, coconut flakes, pomegranate seeds.

Instructions

Make the pudding

  • In a medium saucepan pour the milk, heavy cream, honey and rose water. Cook over medium-high until it reaches soft boil. When you notice small bubble around the edges of the pan.
  • Measure the cornstarch in a medium bowl, then gradually mix in about one cup and as you stir.
  • Pour the cornstarch mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat while constantly stirring until thickened.
  • Remove from the heat and pour into a large measuring cup.
  • Divide the pudding between your serving dishes. Do not fill all the way to the top, make sure to leave space for the syrup and toppings.
  • Cover the dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate to cool and set.

Make the Syrup

  • Pour the pomegranate sauce and sugar into a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolved and the juice reduced to 1/2 cup. About 15 minutes.
  • Remove from heat, pour into a measuring cup and set aside.

To serve

  • Remove the plastic wrap from the serving dishes, and drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of the juice.
  • Sprinkle your choice of topping(s) and serve.

Notes

  • Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • You can replace the cream with milk, and 1/2 cup of sugar (100g) instead of honey.
  • For dairy free and vegan options, use plant based alternative, do not use reduced fat.
  • The rose water is optional and a small amount goes a very long way. Even one drop can transform your dessert from a delicious sweet treat to soap tasting pudding. Unless you are familiar with it, I recommend to not add more than 1/2 teaspoon.
  • If you prefer a thicker pudding, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly. For a lighter texture, reduce the cornstarch by a tablespoon.
     This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. Just add the toppings right before serving.