The Emirates Culinary Guild | Emirati Cuisine | Sagao Dessert Recipe

sago pearls

🥗Healthier: tapioca pearls

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Tapioca provides a similar texture, while cornstarch is often more affordable.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Almond milk is lower in calories, while evaporated milk is budget-friendly.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener, while brown sugar can be less expensive.

pistachios

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Walnuts are nutritious and sunflower seeds are often cheaper.

Soak sago in water for 30 minutes until softened.

Boil water in a pot and add the soaked sago.

Cook the sago until translucent, stirring occasionally, about 10-15 minutes.

Drain the sago and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

In a separate pot, heat ghee over medium heat until warm.

Add sugar and stir until dissolved in the ghee.

Incorporate saffron, cardamom, and rosewater into the mixture.

Combine the cooked sago with the mixture and mix well.

Transfer the mixture to serving bowls or molds.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until set.

Garnish with toasted walnuts and pistachios before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens