✓ Tested in Faten's kitchen
Thick semolina porridge sweetened with honey and enriched with butter — the traditional breakfast of South Lebanese fishermen and coastal workers. Simple, sustaining, and eaten from a communal bowl at dawn.
⏱ 25 min🍽 4 servings📍 South Lebanon
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The story
Asida exists across the Arab and North African world but the South Lebanese version has a specific character: it is denser than the Tunisian or Sudanese versions, uses local wild honey (asal barri) from the coastal hills, and is always finished with salted butter rather than ghee, reflecting the dairy traditions of the villages between Sidon and Tyre. The fishing communities of Sur (Tyre) historically ate asida before dawn departure and again after return from the sea. It is pure fuel: dense, sweet, and caloric. South Lebanese emigrants in the Ivory Coast maintained this dish, sometimes incorporating local Ivorian honey into their versions.
Frequently asked questions
What is South Lebanese Semolina Porridge?
Thick semolina porridge sweetened with honey and enriched with butter — the traditional breakfast of South Lebanese fishermen and coastal workers. Simple, sustaining, and eaten from a communal bowl at dawn.
Where is South Lebanese Semolina Porridge from?
South Lebanese Semolina Porridge comes from South Lebanon. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is South Lebanese Semolina Porridge vegetarian?
As written, South Lebanese Semolina Porridge contains no meat or fish, so it is suitable for vegetarians. It does include dairy or other animal-derived ingredients, so it is not vegan. Check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of ground cinnamon in South Lebanese Semolina Porridge?
The ground cinnamon called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives South Lebanese Semolina Porridge its traditional character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with South Lebanese Semolina Porridge?
In a Levantine desserts spread, South Lebanese Semolina Porridge is served at the end of a meal or with afternoon coffee or tea. A little extra syrup or nuts on top is traditional where the recipe calls for them.
Can I make South Lebanese Semolina Porridge ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Most components can be prepared ahead. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture; syrups and nut toppings are best added or refreshed close to serving.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step audio narration (text-to-speech) guides you hands-free. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
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