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A rich, glossy Dubai‑style chocolate bar layered with a silky pistachio‑tahini filling. The recipe uses the double‑method tempering technique for a snap‑perfect finish and only requires a few simple steps, freezer time, and basic kitchen tools.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Dubai chocolate, also known as "kadi" in some Gulf regions, blends the region’s love for rich nuts with European chocolate techniques. It became popular in the UAE as a modern twist on traditional pistachio sweets, often served at celebrations and as a premium gift.
In the Gulf, some versions replace pistachio cream with date paste or almond‑halva filling, and a light dusting of cardamom or rose water is added for aroma. In Lebanon, a similar bar uses cashew‑tahini filling and is called "chocolate halawa."
Authentic Dubai chocolate is typically cut into small, bite‑size squares and served on a decorative platter alongside Arabic coffee (gahwa) and fresh fruit. It is often presented during Ramadan evenings and wedding celebrations.
Dubai chocolate is a popular treat for Eid al‑Fitr, Eid al‑Adha, weddings, and corporate gifting. Its luxurious appearance and rich flavor make it a favorite for special occasions and as a premium souvenir for tourists.
The combination of tempered chocolate with a silky pistachio‑tahini filling creates a contrast of glossy snap and creamy nutty interior, a texture rarely found in traditional Middle Eastern desserts, which are usually syrup‑based or baked.
Common errors include overheating the chocolate, allowing any moisture into the melt, and not letting the first chocolate layer fully set before adding the filling. Each mistake can cause a dull finish, grainy texture, or leaking filling.
The double‑method (double boiler) provides gentle, even heat, which reduces the risk of scorching and gives better control over the tempering temperature. Microwave tempering can be uneven, especially with larger batches of chocolate.
Yes, you can prepare the bars up to three days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
The chocolate should have a high gloss, a firm snap when broken, and a smooth, creamy interior that does not ooze. The pistachio‑tahini layer should be uniform and slightly glossy from the chocolate coating.
The YouTube channel Groark Boys’ BBQ focuses on outdoor grilling, barbecue techniques, and creative twists on classic comfort foods, often incorporating bold flavors and hands‑on demonstrations.
Groark Boys’ BBQ brings a barbecue‑inspired, high‑energy style to Middle Eastern sweets, emphasizing bold flavor pairings like pistachio‑tahini and using outdoor cooking equipment (e.g., portable burners) for tempering, which is less common on traditional dessert channels.
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