A beloved treat enjoyed during festive times and special occasions, Malban is a traditional Egyptian dessert that enchants both adults and kids with its chewy, jelly-like texture and sweet, floral aroma. Known in the West as Turkish Delight, this simple yet exquisite confection has spread joy across generations.
The unique flavor of Malban comes from the blend of rose water, honey, and a hint of vanilla, resulting in a dessert that’s truly memorable. Prized for its delicate yet vibrant sweetness, Malban, with its smooth feel and nut-studded charm, holds a prominent place in festive dessert arrays.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 3 tablespoons honey or glucose syrup
- 2 tablespoons rose water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons additional water (for dissolving cornstarch)
- Red food coloring (as needed)
- 3 tablespoons gelatin
- 4 tablespoons boiling water
- Peanuts (optional, as desired)
- Cornstarch for dusting
Preparation
- Combine 1 1/2 cups of sugar and 1 1/2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil.
- Add freshly squeezed lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of honey or glucose syrup, rose water, and vanilla extract, stirring continuously.
- Dissolve 1/2 cup of cornstarch in 4 tablespoons of water and gradually add to the boiling mixture, stirring constantly.
- Allow the mixture to boil again, then add red food coloring until desired shade is reached.
- Dissolve 3 tablespoons of gelatin in 4 tablespoons of boiling water, stirring vigorously until fully dissolved. Incorporate the gelatin mixture into the boiling Malban mixture.
- Continue to stir on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until thickened.
- Prepare a tray lined with a greased nylon bag or parchment paper, and pour the mixture into it. Smooth out the top.
- Optionally, add peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Allow to cool slightly before refrigerating for about 15 minutes.
- Dust a cutting board with cornstarch and lay the chilled Malban on it, cutting into desired shapes. Dust pieces with additional cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Did you know?
The name Malban has its roots in the Arabic word “malban,” which means something pliable or elastic, a fitting description for its chewy consistency. Although closely related to Lebanese and other Middle Eastern confections, the Egyptian variation includes specific ingredients and methods that make it particularly unique.
Malban is often enjoyed during celebrations such as Eid and Ramadan, marking it as a dessert of joyous significance. Its counterpart, Turkish Delight, or Lokum, is enjoyed widely across Turkey and neighboring countries, showcasing regional variations in flavor and presentation.
Aside from its delightful taste, Malban is richly imbued with cultural heritage. In Egypt, it’s a traditional dessert for kids during festivals, meticulously crafted in homes to share sweetness and goodwill. Incorporating ingredients like honey or glucose not only adds to its shelf-life but also creates a healthier alternative compared to sugar-laden treats.
Next time you savor a piece of Malban, you’ll not only enjoy its delicious taste but also a slice of Middle Eastern heritage laden with generations of craftsmanship and cultural significance.
