Steamed Semolina and Poppy Seed Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steamer: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer rack inside. Grease a cake pan that fits inside your steamer.
2. Toast the Semolina and Poppy Seeds: In a dry pan, lightly toast the semolina until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and let it cool. In the same pan, toast the poppy seeds for a minute until they start to pop.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the toasted semolina, poppy seeds, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, milk, ghee (or oil), and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
6. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Steam the Cake: Place the cake pan in the steamer. Cover the pot and steam for about 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Make sure to check the water level occasionally and add more if needed.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the steamer and let it cool completely before removing it from the pan. Cut into slices and serve.

Enjoy your Steamed Semolina and Poppy Seed Cake!