Booza Vegan Recipe: Easy Homemade Middle Eastern Ice Cream

Discover the delightful world of Middle Eastern frozen treats with this Booza vegan recipe. Booza is a traditional Arabic ice cream known for its unique stretchy texture and rich, creamy flavor.

Made from simple plant-based ingredients and flavored naturally, this vegan version captures all the magic of the classic booza without any dairy. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just curious about trying something new, this recipe is a fantastic way to cool off on a warm day with a sweet treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

This booza is infused with fragrant mastic and rose water, delivering an authentic taste experience, while the use of vegan-friendly thickeners gives it that signature chew and stretch. Ready to impress your friends or family with an exotic dessert?

Let’s dive into how to create this luscious, creamy vegan booza right in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan booza recipe is a celebration of texture and flavor, combining traditional Middle Eastern ingredients with a modern plant-based twist. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Authentic stretchy texture: Thanks to the use of vegan-friendly salep powder and mastic resin, your booza will have that iconic chewiness that sets it apart from regular ice cream.
• Natural and simple ingredients: No artificial flavors or additives here — just wholesome plant-based milk, natural sweeteners, and aromatic spices.
• Perfect for all diets: Completely vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it an inclusive dessert option.
• Impressively easy to make at home: No fancy ice cream maker needed, just some stirring and freezing!
• Customizable flavors: You can infuse it with rose, orange blossom, pistachios, or even chocolate for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

• 4 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
• 2 tsp salep powder (a natural thickener from orchid tubers, available online or specialty stores)
• 1/2 tsp ground mastic resin (lightly crushed)
• 1 tbsp rose water (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Chopped pistachios or other nuts, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Freezer-safe container or loaf pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mortar and pestle (optional, for crushing mastic resin)
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer (optional for whipping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the mastic resin: If using whole mastic crystals, gently crush 1/2 teaspoon using a mortar and pestle until finely ground. This helps release its aroma and flavor.
2. Combine your plant milks: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 4 cups of almond milk and 1 cup of coconut milk. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
3. Add sugar and salep powder: Slowly sprinkle in 1/2 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons salep powder, whisking continuously. The salep powder is essential for that stretchy texture, so ensure it dissolves completely without lumps.
4. Incorporate the mastic resin: Stir in the crushed mastic resin and continue to heat the mixture, whisking often to prevent sticking. Allow it to thicken slightly—this should take about 7 to 10 minutes. The mixture will coat the back of a spoon.
5. Flavor the mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and add 1 tablespoon rose water and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
6. Cool the mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. For best results, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step helps develop flavor and texture.
7. Freeze and stretch: Pour the chilled mixture into a freezer-safe container. Place it in the freezer, and every 30 minutes, remove and vigorously stir or knead the ice cream with a spatula or a wooden spoon. Repeat this process 3 to 4 times to develop the stretchy texture characteristic of booza.
8. Final freeze: After the last stirring session, freeze the booza for at least 2 more hours until firm but scoopable.
9. Serve: Scoop your vegan booza into bowls or cones and garnish with chopped pistachios or your favorite toppings.

Tips & Variations

“For the best stretchy texture, salep powder is non-negotiable. If you can’t find it locally, check Middle Eastern markets or online specialty stores.

It’s worth the investment!”

• Flavor twists: Add a few drops of orange blossom water instead of rose water for a citrusy aroma.
• Nutty delight: Stir in finely chopped pistachios or almonds directly into the mixture before freezing for extra crunch.
• Chocolate booza: Mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate version.
• Vegan whipped topping: For a creamier texture, whip some coconut cream separately and fold it in before freezing.
• Storage: Booza is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Booza is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with Middle Eastern sweets or fresh fruits. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving:

• Top with crushed pistachios and a drizzle of date syrup or agave nectar.
• Serve alongside warm Cheese Penny Recipe for a sweet and savory combo.
• Pair with a refreshing cup of mint tea or a light cocktail to balance the creamy richness.
• Use it as a base for an exotic milkshake by blending booza with frozen bananas or berries.
• For a festive touch, serve with rose petals or edible gold flakes on top.

Conclusion

Making vegan booza at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of traditional Middle Eastern culture to your kitchen. This recipe combines simple, natural ingredients with a unique technique that yields a creamy, stretchy, and irresistibly delicious frozen dessert.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or looking to expand your dessert repertoire, this booza recipe is a must-try.

Experiment with flavors like rose water and mastic, and don’t hesitate to add your favorite nuts or spices for a personal touch. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love exploring other creative frozen treats like the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or the delightful Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Happy scooping and enjoy your vegan booza adventure!

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