Oman today_ Kazandibi, literally meaning “bottom of the pan,” is one of Turkey’s traditional and beloved desserts. It is made from milk, sugar, cornstarch, and flour, featuring a caramelized layer at the bottom of the dish that gives it a unique and delightful flavor. In the past, Kazandibi was made using chicken breast pudding (Tavuk Göğsü), but today it is more commonly prepared with Muhallebi, a type of milk pudding. The caramelized layer at the bottom adds an earthy and caramelized taste that blends perfectly with the soft and sweet upper layer.
This dessert is especially popular during Ramadan and is often served for Iftar. It can be presented either as rectangular slices or rolled into an elegant shape.
Ingredients:
Milk: 1 liter_ Cream: 1 cu_ Sugar: 1 cup_ Rice flour: 2 tablespoons_ All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoon_ Vanilla: ½ teaspoon_ Butter: 2 tablespoons (for greasing the pan)_ Sugar: 2 tablespoons (for caramelizing the base)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Milk Mixture: In a saucepan, mix the milk, cream, sugar, rice flour, and all-purpose flour. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Add the vanilla at the end, and after a couple of boils, remove the saucepan from the heat.
2. Preparing the Caramelized Base: Grease the bottom of a non-stick pan with butter and evenly sprinkle sugar over it. Heat the pan gently until the sugar melts and turns golden brown, creating a caramel layer. Remove the pan from the heat.
3. Pouring the Milk Mixture: Carefully pour the prepared milk mixture over the caramelized base, ensuring it spreads evenly. Let it cool at room temperature, then place the dish in the refrigerator for a few hours until it sets completely.
4. Serving: Once chilled and set, cut the dessert into rectangular slices or roll it up before serving. You can garnish it with ground pistachios or cinnamon for an extra touch.
Kazandibi, with its soft texture and caramelized flavor, is an excellent choice for hosting guests or celebrating special occasions.