Qatari-inspired Klaben Delight

Ingredients

In this Qatari-inspired version of Bremer Klaben, we incorporate Qatari spices such as cardamom, saffron, and rose water to infuse the bread with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we use dates and pistachios, which are commonly found in Qatari cuisine, as the primary dried fruits and nuts in the recipe. These adaptations give the dish a distinct Qatari twist while still maintaining the essence of the original German Klaben. We alse have the original recipe for Bremer Klaben, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rose water 1/4 cup (60ml) rose water
• 1/2 cup (75g) chopped dates 1/2 cup (75g) chopped dates
• 1/2 cup (75g) chopped pistachios 1/2 cup (75g) chopped pistachios
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 14g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 44g (Sugars: 22g)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, saffron, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the milk and rose water.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Fold in the chopped dates, pistachios, and orange zest.
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. 8.
   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Allow the Klaben to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dates — Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped into small pieces for even distribution throughout the bread.
• Pistachios — Use unsalted pistachios and chop them into small chunks to add a delightful crunch to the Klaben.
• Saffron — Crush the saffron threads before adding them to the batter to release their vibrant color and aroma.
• Rose water — Use a high-quality rose water to enhance the Qatari flavor profile of the bread.
• Orange zest — Grate the orange zest finely to infuse the bread with a subtle citrusy note.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, soak the chopped dates in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the batter.
• If you prefer a more pronounced cardamom flavor, increase the amount of ground cardamom to 1 teaspoon.
• Serve the Klaben warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of Qatari clotted cream for an extra indulgence.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• This recipe can be easily doubled to make two loaves if desired.

Serving advice

Slice the Qatari-inspired Klaben Delight into thick slices and serve it as a delightful accompaniment to a cup of Qatari tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat during festive occasions or family gatherings.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the Klaben with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also garnish the serving platter with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios and a few dried rose petals for an elegant touch.