Middle EasternEmirati Balaleet (Sweet Vermicelli with Omelette)
Vermicelli toasted in ghee and sweetened with sugar, cardamom, saffron and rose water, served under a thin omelette. The sweet and savory Emirati breakfast for Eid mornings and Ramadan.
Method
Read the full method before starting. Cooking times are guides; check texture and doneness as you cook.
Shows the steps one at a time, with a timer for each timed step.
Heavy skillet, Saucepan or pot, Sharp knife and board
Measure, cut, and arrange every ingredient in order of use. Read the full method and keep finishing ingredients separate.
- 01
Saffron
10 minutesSoak the saffron in the rose water for 10 minutes.
Success cueDeep orange rose water.
- 02
Toasting
4 minutesMedium heatMelt half of the ghee in a pot and toast the vermicelli for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until light golden.
Success cueLight golden vermicelli.
- 03
Boiling
7 minutesHigh heatAdd the water, bring to a boil and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vermicelli is just soft, then drain it well.
Success cueSoft but separate strands.
- 04
Sweetening
3 minutesLow heatReturn the vermicelli to the pot with the sugar, cardamom and the saffron with its rose water and stir over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until glossy and yellow.
Success cueGlossy, golden yellow strands.
- 05
Omelette
3 minutesLow heatBeat the eggs with a pinch of salt and cook them in the rest of the ghee in a wide pan over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes into a thin omelette.
Success cueA thin, pale yellow omelette with no brown spots.
- 06
Serving
1 minutePile the vermicelli on a plate and lay the omelette on top. Serve warm.
Success cueGolden vermicelli under a yellow omelette.
PlateMap is still in testing. Quantities and results may vary with ingredients and equipment. Please check food safety yourself, especially with meat and poultry.
Cooking tips
Soaking the saffron in rose water first gives the vermicelli an even golden color.
- • Drain the vermicelli well so it stays separate and does not turn mushy.
- • Adjust the sugar to taste; some families like it quite sweet.
Common mistakes
- • Overcooking the vermicelli, so it turns soft and sticky.
- • Cooking the omelette on high heat, so it browns and toughens.
Serving ideasServe warm with Arabic coffee or karak tea.
Potential allergens
Wheat / gluten, Egg, Milk
Compound ingredients vary by product; check labels and possible cross-contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is balaleet sweet or savory?
Both: sweet, fragrant vermicelli with a lightly salted omelette on top, eaten together.
Can I use regular vermicelli?
Yes. Any thin vermicelli works; toast it well for the best taste.
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