Go Back
Algerian Mahalabiya recipe
Rebiai min eat

Authentic Algerian Mahalabiya (Rice Pudding)

A creamy, smooth, and traditional Algerian rice pudding scented with orange blossom water and cinnamon. Perfect for a comforting late-night dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 أشخاص
Course: Dessert, Late-Night Treat
Cuisine: algerian, North African
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup Fine Ground Rice Flour
  • 4 cups Whole Milk
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Orange Blossom Water
  • 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon for garnish
  • Slivered almonds or crushed pistachios optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Mix cold: In a cold, heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk the whole milk, ground rice flour, and sugar until completely dissolved.
  2. Heat and stir: Place the saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk.
  3. Thicken: Keep stirring for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens into a silky, custard-like consistency. Do not let it boil vigorously.
  4. Flavor: Once thickened, remove from heat immediately and stir in the orange blossom water.
  5. Cool: Pour the hot pudding into 4 individual dessert bowls. Let them cool to room temperature.
  6. Chill: Place the bowls in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
  7. Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon in a lattice pattern and top with optional nuts.

Notes

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving / 1 Bowl)
Calories: 230 kcal
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 65 mg
Fiber: 1 g
📝 Recipe Notes & Tips
Orange Blossom Water Balance: Orange blossom water is the signature aroma of authentic Algerian Mahalabiya. Add it towards the end of the cooking process so its fragrant floral flavor doesn't evaporate.
 
Continuous Stirring: Keep stirring the milk and rice flour mixture constantly over low-to-medium heat to prevent lumps from forming and to get a silky-smooth, creamy texture.
 
Garnish Variations: While ground cinnamon and crushed almonds or pistachios are the classic traditional toppings, you can also serve it with a light fruit coulis (such as strawberry or raspberry) for a refreshing modern twist.