🇱🇧 Lebanon · Dessert
Malabi
By eatmundo · July 12, 2026
A creamy, silky Lebanese milk pudding often infused with delicate orange blossom water. This elegant dessert is simple to prepare yet sophisticated in its chilled, velvet-like consistency.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Whisk 4 tablespoons of cornstarch into 200ml of cold milk until completely smooth.
- 2
Bring the remaining 800ml of milk and 100g of sugar to a gentle boil in a medium pot.
- 3
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- 4
Continue cooking over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- 5
Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of high-quality orange blossom water.
- 6
Pour the mixture into small serving glasses or ramekins immediately.
- 7
Let the puddings cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
- 8
Garnish with ground pistachios or shredded coconut before serving cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?+
Yes, full-fat canned coconut milk or almond milk works well, though coconut milk provides the closest creamy texture to the original dairy version.
How do I know when the Malabi has thickened enough?+
The mixture is ready when it coats the back of a wooden spoon and begins to bubble slightly, similar to the consistency of a thick pudding.
Can I replace the orange blossom water with rose water?+
Absolutely, rose water is a traditional and common substitute that provides a similar floral aroma profile to the dish.
How long should the Malabi chill before serving?+
You should refrigerate the individual portions for at least 4 hours, though letting them set overnight ensures the best texture.
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