If you have a sweet tooth, you probably are familiar with Middle Eastern pastries and desserts because they have a bit of everything that makes for a great dessert. Even if you don’t, Mediterranean desserts are something you must try. The variety of recipes, ingredients, and finished products guarantee that there will always be something for everyone. 

The base ingredients of these pastries and sweets are flaky phyllo dough, dates, honey, rose water, semolina flour, and pistachios but there is always so much more that goes in. For those who are not familiar with Middle Eastern desserts, here are a few of the most popular ones to try. For those familiar with the cuisine, this is a reminder to head down to the nearest Middle Eastern grocery store or deli and pick up the pastries that will complete any meal, irrespective of the cuisine.

• Maamoul Cookies: These cookiesare usually prepared to celebrate important festivals, but they can be had at any time. The cookies can have all kinds of fillings, including pistachio paste, ground walnuts, date paste, and so on. Cinnamon flavoring is a common theme to these cookies.
• Baklava: There is no need to say anything about this universally loved Middle Eastern pastry – such is its popularity.
• Layali Lubnan: This is a form of semolina pudding that contains cranberries, thick coconut cream, scented syrup, and pistachios. It is perfect for vegans and can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until it's time to eat it.
• Kanafeh: This perennial favorite is made up of layers of phyllo dough with hot cheese in between them. The whole dish is covered in a sweet syrup.

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Also Read: Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Food

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• Stuffed Dates: Dates are stuffed with honey, chocolate, and other fillings and can be eaten at any time either as a dessert or as a sweet and nutritious snack. If you like Snickers, you will love these dates.
• Harissa: Harissa is a semolina cake with most often a cream or coconut filling and is covered with a drizzle of sweet syrup and decorated with all kinds of nuts.
• · Mesh Om Ali: This is phyllo dough that has been soaked in a combination of cream and condensed milk. It is then topped with ground cinnamon and nuts. This crisp on the outside and creamy on the inside pastry is one of the easiest to make.
• Qatayef Asafiri: These are pancakes stuffed with a filling of sweet cheese and ground pistachios. They are a great addition to any meal.

Find an Exclusive Gourmet Selection in San Mateo

Middle Eastern pastries are not difficult to prepare and most can be made well in advance and just brought to the table when the meal is over. You can find recipes for the desserts mentioned here, and many more, online.

Those living in the Bay Area have all the ingredients needed to make these pastries and desserts near them. Aladdin Gourmet is a specialist Middle Eastern grocery in San Mateo that stocks only the best and freshest produce. You can get all that you need to create great pastries, or a full meal if you feel like it, at this store. If you are not in the mood to enter the kitchen, you can pick up a range of desserts, along with all kinds of Middle Eastern dishes, from the deli.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most popular Middle Eastern pastries?

Some of the most popular ones include Baklava, Maamoul Cookies, Kanafeh, Layali Lubnan, and Stuffed Dates.

2.  Are Middle Eastern pastries suitable for vegans?

Yes! Many Middle Eastern pastries, such as Layali Lubnan, are vegan-friendly, made with plant-based ingredients like semolina and coconut cream.

3. Where can I find ingredients to make Middle Eastern desserts in San Mateo?

You can visit Aladdin Gourmet in San Mateo for a wide selection of fresh ingredients to make Middle Eastern pastries and other dishes.

4. How can I store Middle Eastern pastries?

Most Middle Eastern pastries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer shelf life.

5. Can I buy pre-made Middle Eastern pastries in San Mateo?

Yes, Aladdin Gourmet offers a range of pre-made Middle Eastern desserts available at their deli for those who prefer ready-to-eat treats.

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