Muhallabieh with cherries and hibiscus syrup

This is basically Palestinian panna cotta – a simple set pudding – but even lighter and easier to make. Milky set puddings are traditionally served on New Year’s Day as a symbol of prosperity and happiness. We can’t vouch for the prosperity but they do make us happy. This takes minutes to prepare and is the perfect way to round off a meal.

Getting ahead: Both the puddings and the cherries can be made a day or two ahead of serving. Just keep them separately, in the fridge, and