Puddings, Cakes and Sweets

In the Middle East the usual conclusion to a meal is a bowl of fruit. The sweet pastries, desserts, jams and preserves which have given the region its reputation for a sweet tooth are made to mark special occasions and for entertaining guests. They are symbols of generosity and friendship, happiness, rejoicing and success. Quantities are made regularly and stored away, ready for the casual caller and the unexpected friend, who by Middle Eastern convention, expects and enjoys a warm, enthusiastic welcome at any time of the day. He will invariably be received, even at an awkward time, with the famous Oriental hospitality, the ingrained courtesy and decorum which have been rooted deeply by centuries of custom. Pastries, jams and preserves will be pressed upon him with a Turkish coffee.