Assyrian-inspired Almond Cake

Ingredients

In this Assyrian adaptation, we incorporate Middle Eastern flavors and ingredients to transform the traditional Italian Torta Mantovana. The addition of cardamom and rosewater infuses the cake with a distinct Assyrian aroma. Furthermore, we top the cake with pistachios, a popular ingredient in Assyrian cuisine, to enhance its texture and add a touch of Assyrian flair. We alse have the original recipe for Torta Mantovana, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (100g) ground almonds 1 cup (100g) ground almonds
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon rosewater 1 tablespoon rosewater
• ¼ cup (30g) chopped pistachios, for garnish ¼ cup (30g) chopped pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and ground cardamom.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the vanilla extract and rosewater. Mix until just combined.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the batter.
8. 8.
   Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
10. 10.
    Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground almonds — Ensure the almonds are finely ground to achieve a smooth texture in the cake batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the batter.
• To enhance the cake's presentation, dust it with powdered sugar before serving.
• Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• If you prefer a stronger rosewater flavor, you can increase the amount to 2 tablespoons.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Assyrian-inspired almond cake as a delightful dessert after a traditional Assyrian meal. It pairs beautifully with a cup of aromatic Assyrian tea or a refreshing glass of rosewater lemonade.

Presentation advice

To present the cake elegantly, place it on a decorative cake stand and sprinkle some additional chopped pistachios on top. You can also garnish the serving plates with rose petals for a touch of Assyrian opulence.