on sunday i was invited to a beautiful baby shower for a beautiful friend. her house was filled with arab and american friends, lots of music, dancing, and excellent food. i was particularly taken by a dessert called “lebanese nights” (or layali lubnan). it’s a semolina pudding topped with a layer of whipped cream and coarsely ground pistachios. u pour sugar syrup on top in order to impart just the right amount of sweetness. the dessert is flavored with orange blossom or rose water. the texture of the pudding has the same cool smoothness as panna cotta (might it be the use of mastika or arabic gum). the flavors are subtle and complex. must endeavor to make some at home.