Discover Asir
Plan your trip
Seasons and events
Discover Asir booklet
Aseer Film
Symbolizing generosity, this dish of corn flour mixed with milk is meticulously prepared and served with ghee and honey.
The foundation of Al-Mashgootha lies in the harmonious blend of yellow corn flour or white flour with salted buttermilk, skillfully stirred using a wooden implement known as Al-Maswat, hewn from the region's indigenous trees. This mixture is then subjected to gentle heat, undergoing continuous stirring until it reaches the crucial stage known as Al-Nakhat, where the ingredients coalesce, thickening and producing distinctive bubbling sounds on the surface. Subsequently, the dish is allowed to simmer over low heat until the alluring aroma of Al-Shawet, signifying the beginning of browning at the base of the pot, permeates the air, indicating the completion of the cooking process
The prepared Al-Mashgootha is then deftly poured into designated containers called Al-Sahaf, crafted from the prized woods of Aseer's forests, renowned for their esteemed value. Within the heart of the container, a dollop of honey wax is placed, accompanied by a drizzle of fresh local ghee and Al-Radeefah. For an added touch of elegance, dates may adorn the edges, enhancing the visual and gustatory appeal of the dish.
Embraced as a quintessential winter delight, Al-Mashgootha captivates with its high caloric content, making it a favored choice among children, the elderly, patients, and during festive seasons, celebrated for its ease of consumption and nutritional richness. This esteemed dish serves as a symbol of generosity and hospitality, particularly cherished among the people of the Al-Hajar region in Aseer, including Al-Namas, Balasmar, Balahmar, and Tanuma