What Is the Dessert in Dubai Called?

By Alice Nichols

Dubai, the glamorous city known for its towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and extravagant lifestyle, also offers a delightful culinary experience to satisfy your sweet tooth. When it comes to desserts in Dubai, one particular treat stands out – Umm Ali.

Umm Ali: The Traditional Delight

Umm Ali is a traditional Arabic dessert that has become one of Dubai’s most beloved indulgences. This rich and creamy dessert is often served warm and is made with a combination of puff pastry, milk, sugar, nuts, and raisins. Its velvety texture and heavenly taste make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The Legend Behind Umm Ali

Legend has it that Umm Ali originated during the time of the Ayyubid dynasty in Egypt. The story goes that after the ruler’s death, his wife Umm Ali wanted to celebrate by creating a special dessert to share with her people. She combined the ingredients readily available in her kitchen and thus created this delectable dessert.

The Recipe: How to Make Umm Ali at Home

If you want to try making Umm Ali in the comfort of your own kitchen, here’s a simplified recipe:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Break puff pastry into small pieces and spread them on a baking sheet.
  • Bake the puff pastry in the oven until golden brown and crispy.
  • In a saucepan, heat milk with sugar until it reaches a gentle simmer.
  • Add crushed nuts (such as almonds or pistachios) and raisins to the milk mixture.
  • Once the puff pastry is ready, break it into smaller pieces.
  • Place half of the puff pastry pieces in a baking dish.
  • Pour the milk mixture over the puff pastry in the baking dish.
  • Layer the remaining puff pastry pieces on top.
  • Bake the Umm Ali in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until it turns golden on top.

Enjoying Umm Ali in Dubai

While making Umm Ali at home can be a delightful experience, nothing beats indulging in this traditional dessert at one of Dubai’s finest restaurants or bakeries. Many renowned establishments offer their own unique twists on this classic dessert, taking it to new heights of flavor and presentation.

Tips for Serving Umm Ali

To enhance your Umm Ali experience, consider these serving suggestions:

  • Garnish: Sprinkle some powdered sugar and ground cinnamon on top for an added touch of sweetness and aroma.
  • Accompaniments: Serve Umm Ali with a side of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement its creamy texture.
  • Beverage Pairing: Enjoy Umm Ali with a cup of Turkish coffee or mint tea to create a harmonious blend of flavors.

So, whether you decide to make Umm Ali at home or savor it at one of Dubai’s renowned eateries, this traditional dessert is sure to leave you craving for more. With its luscious taste and cultural significance, Umm Ali truly represents the essence of Dubai’s culinary scene.