✓ Tested in Faten's kitchen
Dense semolina cake soaked through with fragrant rose water syrup, topped with a single blanched almond on each square. Namoura is the everyday Lebanese semolina cake — denser and less sweet than harisseh, with a more pronounced rose water character.
⏱ 50 min🍽 16 servings📍 Mount Lebanon
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The story
Namoura occupies the middle ground between festive and everyday in Lebanese home baking. It requires no special equipment, no difficult technique, and ingredients found in any Lebanese kitchen at all times. Mountain families make it on Friday afternoons when guests might arrive, and Lebanese mothers make it for school bake sales from São Paulo to Sydney. In the diaspora, it is often the first recipe Lebanese children learn because it is forgiving and always works. The name is of uncertain etymology — possibly from the Arabic word for "tiger" (nimr), referring to the golden-striped surface the scoring creates.
Frequently asked questions
What is Namoura?
Dense semolina cake soaked through with fragrant rose water syrup, topped with a single blanched almond on each square. Namoura is the everyday Lebanese semolina cake — denser and less sweet than harisseh, with a more pronounced rose water character.
Where is Namoura from?
Namoura comes from Mount Lebanon. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Namoura vegetarian?
As written, Namoura 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 fine semolina in Namoura?
The fine semolina called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Namoura 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 Namoura?
In a Levantine desserts spread, Namoura 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 Namoura 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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