Dahad: The Traditional Palestinian Sweet

Indulge in the golden, aromatic delight of Dahad – a silky semolina pastry that melts in your mouth and offers a fragrant burst of coconut and cinnamon. This classic Palestinian treat is perfect for Ramadan, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to share a taste of heritage.

• 6 cups coarse semolina
• 1 cup melted ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 cup all‑purpose flour
• 1 cup warm plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup fine white sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups coarse semolina (filling)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (filling)
• ½ cup melted ghee (filling)
• 2 cups fine white sugar (filling)
• 2 cups shredded coconut (filling)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (filling)
• 1 cup warm water (filling)

1. Combine the semolina, flour, instant yeast, baking powder, sugar, and turmeric in a large bowl.
2. Add the melted ghee, vegetable oil, and yogurt; mix until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Knead briefly and set aside to rest for 10 minutes.
4. Prepare the filling by sautéing the oil, melted ghee, sugar, coconut, and cinnamon until fragrant, then gradually whisk in the warm water until a thick paste forms.
5. Grease a round baking dish with a light coat of oil or tahini.
6. Spread half of the dough across the bottom of the dish, then layer the filling, and spread the remaining dough around the top, covering the edges.
7. Rest the assembled pastry at room temperature for 1 hour to allow rising.
8. Bake at 350 °F (180 °C) for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool before serving; pair with a glass of fresh fruit juice.

Nutrition (per serving): ~300 kcal, 12 g fat, 5 g protein, 45 g carbohydrates.