🇪🇬 Egypt · Dessert
Sahlab
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇪🇬 EGA comforting, creamy Egyptian pudding often enjoyed as a warm winter dessert. This delicate milk-based treat is thickened with starch and perfumed with the unique aroma of mastic.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Dissolve 60g cornstarch in 200ml of cold milk until completely smooth.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 800ml milk and 150g sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- 3
Slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the warm milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- 4
Crush the mastic with a pinch of sugar using a mortar and pestle until it becomes a fine powder.
- 5
Add the crushed mastic and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the pan, continuing to stir constantly.
- 6
Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens to a pourable custard consistency.
- 7
Pour the Sahlab into individual glass bowls while hot, allowing it to set for 5 minutes.
- 8
Garnish liberally with 50g crushed pistachios before serving warm to your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mastic?+
Mastic is a resin from the Pistacia lentiscus tree that gives Sahlab its signature pine-like aroma.
Can I use other nuts?+
Yes, crushed walnuts or almonds are delicious alternatives to pistachios.
How do I avoid lumps?+
Always mix the cornstarch with cold milk first before adding it to the main pot.
Is it served cold?+
Sahlab is traditionally served hot, especially on cold winter evenings.
🇪🇬 EG
