Revani (semolina cake)

16 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
Karen Mintzias
½cupAll-purpose flour
½teaspoonBaking powder
1⅓cupFine semolina or farina
4largesEggs; separated
½cupSugar
½cupOlive oil
¾cupSugar
2Lemons; zested and juiced
2Lemons; grated zest only
½teaspoonAlmond extract
½cupOrange juice
1teaspoonVinegar; for the bowl
1/16teaspoonCream of tartar
½cupBlanched, slivered almonds Water
¼teaspoonAlmond extract

Directions

SYRUP

Make the syrup ahead. Combine the sugar, lemon zest and juice, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes then add the almond extract. Remove and chill overnight.

Line a 10-inch-square cake pan, that is at least 3-inches deep, with parchment. Sift together the flour and baking powder, then stir in the semolina. Beat the egg yolks, sugar, olive oil, lemon zest, and almond extract together until pale and creamy. Beat in the flour mixture, splashing with orange juice to moisten it.

Wipe a mixing bowl with a cloth moistened with vinegar, then put in the egg whites. Beat with the cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, then fold into the batter. Pour into the pan and sprinkle with the almonds.

Bake in an oven preheated to 350 F for about 45 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and, while still hot, cut into squares.

Slowly pour the chilled syrup over it.

Makes 16 slices

Source: Recipes from a Greek Island, by Susie Jacobs Typed for you by Karen Mintzias