Balah el Sham (Egyptian Choux Pastry)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Balah el Sham (Egyptian Choux Pastry).

1. Step 1

   In a medium saucepan, combine one cup of water with one cup of sugar.

2. Step 2

   Heat the mixture over high heat until it reaches a rolling boil, stirring continuously until the sugar fully dissolves.

3. Step 3

   Lower the heat to medium, add the fresh lime juice, and let it simmer for about ten minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

4. Step 4

   Once done, remove from heat, stir in one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and set the syrup aside to cool.

5. Step 5

   In a large pot, blend together the vegetable oil, the remaining two cups of water, one cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt.

6. Step 6

   Bring this concoction to a boil over medium-high heat.

7. Step 7

   When it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to medium and add the flour all at once.

8. Step 8

   Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the batter forms a cohesive ball and takes on a shiny appearance, which should take about a minute.

9. Step 9

   Transfer the warm batter to a large bowl and let it cool for five minutes.

10. Step 10

    Once it has cooled slightly, flatten the batter in the bowl and incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

11. Step 11

    Stir in the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and creamy.

12. Step 12

    Next, fill a cloth piping bag fitted with a large star tip with the batter.

13. Step 13

    Heat corn oil in a deep saucepan over medium heat until it bubbles, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

14. Step 14

    Squeeze out two-inch lengths of batter onto an oiled spatula and gently lower them into the hot oil.

15. Step 15

    Continue this process until the saucepan is filled, cooking the pastries while turning them occasionally until they achieve a golden brown hue, which should take about five minutes.

16. Step 16

    Once cooked, remove the pastries and let them drain in a paper bag for thirty seconds.

17. Step 17

    Finally, immerse the hot pastries in the cooled syrup, then transfer them to a plate to cool for about five minutes before indulging in these delightful treats.

18. Step 18

    Enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors that dance on your palate!.