Sweet rice cigars are a cherished family recipe passed down through generations, originating from my grandmother’s kitchen. This delightful treat has always been a staple during suhoor, bringing back fond memories of early mornings and family gatherings. The combination of sticky rice, fragrant orange blossom, and crunchy almonds wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry creates a unique and delicious experience. The final touch of condensed milk or dulce de leche dip elevates the dish to a whole new level of indulgence
Ingredients:
(Adjust quantities based on your needs)
– 230g or more of round sticky rice
– 3 tablespoons or more of condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon-
50-100g fried almonds, crushed-
Phyllo or pastilla sheets
Decoration:
– Honey or condensed milk
– Crushed fried almonds
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:Begin by cooking the sticky rice in a saucepan, following the usual method. Once cooked, allow the rice to cool completely. This step is crucial as it ensures the rice mixture will hold together when shaping the cigars.
2. Prepare the Mixture:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice with cinnamon, crushed fried almonds, and orange blossom water. The orange blossom water adds a subtle floral note that complements the sweetness of the condensed milk. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
3. Adjust the Sweetness:Gradually add the condensed milk to the rice mixture. Stir continuously until you reach the desired level of sweetness and achieve a cohesive, slightly sticky consistency. The condensed milk not only sweetens the mixture but also helps bind it together.
4. Shape and Fry:Take small portions of the rice mixture and shape them into cigar-like forms. Ensure they are compact and uniform in size to ensure even frying. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the shaped cigars into the hot oil and fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
5. Decorate:For a finishing touch, dip the ends of each cigar into condensed milk and then into crushed fried almonds. This adds a lovely decorative element and an extra layer of flavor and texture. Alternatively, you can drizzle honey over the cigars before sprinkling the almonds.
Sweet rice cigars are more than just a dessert; they are a link to cherished family traditions and memories. The process of making these treats is as enjoyable as the end result, offering a moment to connect with the past and share with loved ones. Whether served during suhoor or as a special treat at any time of the year, these sweet rice cigars are sure to delight and satisfy. The combination of simple ingredients and the love and care put into their preparation make them a timeless favorite. Enjoy every bite, and perhaps this recipe will become a beloved tradition in your family as well.
