By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on June 9, 2023 | Last Updated on August 18, 2023
Arabic popular dish Hanini is a sweet dish usually, served during Ramadan, Eid, and other special occasions. The name Hanini is derived from the Arabic word “Haneen” which means sweetness or delightful pleasure.
This recipe is a popular Middle Eastern dessert and it has an interesting origin that goes back generations in the Arab world. Also, Hanini is a very easy recipe to make, requiring only a few ingredients that you likely have on hand in your kitchen.
If you like to make it at home, I can help. Here is the entire recipe for this amazing dish. Make sure to follow the steps sequentially. Also, if you don’t have all the ingredients, it’s okay to change them according to your taste.
What Is Hanini?
Hanini is a traditional dish made with dates and milk as the main ingredients. This wonderful recipe is known for its unique flavor, creamy texture, and rich taste. It is a dish that is truly enjoyed by all ages and can be served as a dessert or snack.
This recipe has been passed down through generations in the Arab world and it is still cherished in many households today. This dish is best known for its aromatic aroma that wafts through the kitchen and tastes heavenly.
Where Did I First Try Hanini?
I first tried Hanini in the Middle East, specifically in Jordan where it is served during Ramadan as part of an exquisite dinner. It was a special treat that was placed on the table for dessert along with other traditional sweets like Baklava and kunafa.
It was a unique and delicious experience that I will never forget. Since then, I have been eager to make Hanini for myself at home. Besides, it’s an easy recipe to make, as you will soon find out.
Initially, this dish tastes very unique and it has a distinct flavor. Its sweetness comes from the dates that are added to the ingredients, and its creamy texture is due to the addition of melted butter and powdered milk.
Also, the texture of the dish is just perfect, thanks to the addition of baking powder. You will love the new flavor and aroma this dish has to offer.
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Ingredients
- Turmeric powder: It is essential to give the dish its golden-yellow color.
- Black pepper: It is used for flavor balance.
- Water: This is to dissolve the ingredients and give the consistency of a paste.
- Brown Flour: This is added to make it thicker.
- Dates (without seeds): Dried dates are used for sweetness, but you can also use fresh dates.
- Sugar: This is to add sweetness and richness to the dish.
- Butter (Melted): Butter helps to make the Hanini creamy in texture.
- Powdered milk: This is used for added creaminess and flavor.
- Baking powder: Baking powder adds texture and fluff to the dish.
Instructions
Step 1
Gather your ingredients: sugar, date, butter, and spices. Place them in a food processor and blend until smooth.
Step 2
In another bowl whisk together the flour, milk powder, baking powder and water.
Step 3
Pour the wet mixture from your food processor into the dry mix, stirring with a wooden spoon or balloon whisk for an even consistency.
Step 4
Grease your pan and pour the mixture in, preheating your oven to 170ºC. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Once cooled, use a fork to break it into small pieces and add butter or honey if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Be sure to use dried dates for the best flavor and texture, as fresh dates tend to be too moist and can make the Hanini soggy.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar as per your liking.
- If you don’t have butter on hand, you can replace it with an oil of your choice.
- You can also add cardamom powder, nutmeg powder, or cinnamon for additional flavor.
What Ingredients Can I Replace or Substitute While Making It?
- If you don’t have any dates on hand, you can substitute them with an equal amount of raisins or figs. You can also use honey to get the same sweetness and flavor.
- You can replace the black pepper with nutmeg powder for a stronger flavor.
- In place of butter, coconut oil, or olive oil can be used.
- If you don’t have powdered milk, you can use evaporated milk or heavy cream in its place.
- You can also use almond flour instead of brown flour for a gluten-free version.
Best Arabic Hanini Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon Turmeric Powder
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cup water
- 4 cup Brown Flour
- 50 dates without seeds
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 100 gram melted Butter
- 1 1/2 cup powdered milk
- 2 tablespoon baking powder
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients: sugar, date, butter, and spices. Place them in a food processor and blend until smooth.
- In another bowl whisk together the flour, milk powder, baking powder and water.
- Pour the wet mixture from your food processor into the dry mix, stirring with a wooden spoon or balloon whisk for an even consistency.
- Grease your pan and pour the mixture in, preheating your oven to 170ºC. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Once cooled, use a fork to break it into small pieces and add butter or honey if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to use dried dates for the best flavor and texture, as fresh dates tend to be too moist and can make the Hanini soggy.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar as per your liking.
- If you don’t have butter on hand, you can replace it with an oil of your choice.
- You can also add cardamom powder, nutmeg powder, or cinnamon for additional flavor.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition information for Hanini is as follows:
- Calories: 315 kcal
- Fat: 8.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 56.5 g
- Protein: 5.3 g
- Fiber: 2.1 g
- Sugar: 24.3 g
How to Store Hanini?
Hanini is best served the same day it is made. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving. You can also freeze Hanini in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Defrost before reheating and serving.
FAQs
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat this dish as long as the ingredients used are fresh and of good quality
Can I make Hanini without sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or completely omit the addition of sugar if desired. The sweetness won’t be as prominent but it will still taste great.
Can I use almond flour instead of brown flour?
Yes, you can use almond flour as a replacement for brown flour to make the dish gluten-free. You may need to adjust the liquid quantity depending on the type of flour used.
Is Hanini suitable for vegans?
Yes, this dish is suitable for vegans, as long as you replace the butter with a vegan-friendly oil.
Is Hanini healthy?
Yes, Hanini is a healthy dish that is high in fiber and contains essential vitamins and minerals. It can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Wrapping Up
Hanini is a delicious and nourishing treat that makes for a great snack or dessert. It’s made with everyday ingredients like dates, brown flour, butter, milk powder, and spices.
Plus, it can easily be adapted to make it vegan-friendly or gluten-free. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this tasty treat in no time!
So, give Hanini a try and let us know how you liked it. Please share this recipe with your family and friends! Thank you for your time.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
