Omani Sweet Vermicelli (Balaleet)

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) vermicelli noodles 200g (7 oz) vermicelli noodles
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 eggs 4 eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 tablespoon rosewater 1 tablespoon rosewater
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Date syrup, for serving Date syrup, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown and crispy. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the cooked vermicelli noodles and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with saffron, ground cardamom, rosewater, and a pinch of salt.
5. 5.
   Push the vermicelli noodles to one side of the pan and pour the egg mixture into the other side. Allow the eggs to cook for a minute or two, then gently scramble them until they are cooked through.
6. 6.
   Mix the scrambled eggs with the vermicelli noodles until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the Balaleet hot, garnished with the fried onions and accompanied by a drizzle of date syrup.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Vermicelli noodles — Be careful not to overcook the noodles as they can become mushy. Cook them until they are al dente for the best texture.
• Saffron threads — To enhance the flavor and color, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the egg mixture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the egg mixture.
• If you prefer a sweeter Balaleet, you can increase the amount of rosewater or drizzle extra date syrup on top before serving.
• Balaleet can be enjoyed as a breakfast dish or as a dessert.

Serving advice

Serve Balaleet hot as a main dish for breakfast or brunch. It pairs well with a cup of traditional Omani coffee or a refreshing glass of mint tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some chopped pistachios or almonds on top of the Balaleet before garnishing with fried onions. This adds a touch of color and texture to the dish.