Have you ever heard of Umm Ali dessert? This traditional Middle Eastern dish is a sweet and creamy treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. It is also known as Om Ali, which translates to “Ali’s Mother” in Arabic. Umm Ali is often considered the national dessert of Egypt and is enjoyed on special occasions and during festive seasons. It is a dessert that has been enjoyed for generations in Egypt and other parts of the Middle East.

What is Umm Ali?

At its core, Umm Ali is a bread pudding made with layers of phyllo dough, milk, cream, and nuts. The phyllo dough is layered with sweetened milk and cream, and then topped with nuts such as pistachios or almonds. The whole dish is baked until golden brown and served warm.

One of the things that makes Umm Ali so special is its versatility. While the basic recipe calls for phyllo dough, milk, cream, and nuts, there are many variations you can try. Some people add raisins or shredded coconut to the mix, while others use different types of nuts or spices. Regardless of the variation, Umm Ali’s creamy texture and sweet flavour make it the perfect end to any meal. It’s also easy to make, making it an excellent option for entertaining guests or bringing to a potluck.

The History Behind Umm Ali

Om Ali has a rather alarming tale behind its creation. This delightful and filling pudding, made from bread, nuts, coconut, raisins, honey, and hot milk, was named after the wife of a ruler from the Ayyubid dynasty in Egypt. According to legend, the dessert was created during the 13th century to celebrate a rather dark event.

The story goes back to the Egyptian Mamluk era (1250-1517 CE), before the Ottomans ruled Egypt. As-Salih Ayyub (1205-1249 CE) of the Ayyubid dynasty, the Sultan of Egypt, purchased Shajar al-Durr as a bondmaid before he became Sultan. Shortly after, Shajar al-Durr gave birth to a son named Khalil, and As-Salih Ayyub made her a Sultana. They lived in Al Mansoura in Egypt’s Nile Delta. Shajar al-Durr was described by historians as a beautiful, pious, and intelligent woman.

During a period of conflict, Egypt was under attack by the Crusaders when the Sultan died. Shajar al-Durr decided to conceal his death and led the country and army with Turanshah, the commander-in-chief, and defeated the Crusader forces. Shajar al-Durr gained power among the Mamluks who supported her as a Sultan, and to remain powerful, they conspired to assassinate Turanshah to appoint Izz Al-Din Aybak as Commander-in-chief.

Struggling to earn respect from her male peers, Shajar al-Durr married Izz al-Din Aybak, a warrior with Turkish roots, so she could abdicate the throne and hand over her power to him while steering his decisions. The new Sultan was already married and insatiable for more power. Within seven years, he sought to marry another powerful woman to expand his control. Shajar al-Durr, jealous and enraged, ordered her husband killed by one of her loyal servants. She claimed his death was sudden, but Umm Ali, Aybak’s first wife, sought revenge.

Umm Ali, determined to avenge her husband’s death, orchestrated the assassination of Shajar al-Durr. The 15-year-old al-Mansur Ali, the son of Aybak, was made the new Sultan, and his mother, Umm Ali, ordered her bondmaids to kill Shajar al-Durr. Shajar al-Durr was beaten to death with wooden slippers and her body was found outside the Citadel.

In celebration, Umm Ali ordered the cook to create a new and delicious dessert to distribute, announcing that the dessert celebrated Shajar al-Durr’s death. Umm Ali also placed a gold coin in every dessert bowl for the people. The dessert became known as Umm Ali, and it has been served at significant events, weddings, and during Ramadan ever since.

Umm Ali Today

Umm Ali has gained international popularity over the years and can now be found in Middle Eastern restaurants and homes worldwide. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth and a love for Middle Eastern cuisine.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, Umm Ali is a dessert worth trying. Its rich history adds a layer of intrigue to its creamy and nutty flavour, giving every bite a taste of history.