Recipe Details
Gheysava (Eggs With Dates and Cinnamon)
A fusion of sweet and savory, Gheysava delivers caramelized dates, nutty cinnamon, and creamy eggs—garnished with toasted sesame and optional edible rose petals for a fragrant Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast.
Prep & Cook Time
Total Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 2)
2 dried, food-safe Damask rose buds (or ~10 edible petals), for garnish (optional; see Note)
4 large medjool dates (or other meaty varieties)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for sprinkling
2 large eggs
Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Warmed flatbread (e.g., lavash, sangak) or toasted bread, for serving
Note on Edible Rose Petals
Dried Damask rose buds/petals (available at Middle Eastern markets or online) add floral aroma. Whole petals are decorative but tough to chew; grind to a powder for flavor or use sparingly as garnish.
Preparation Steps
Boil Water for Dates: In a small saucepan, bring 1½ cups (360 ml) of water to a rolling boil.
Prepare Rose Petals (if using): If using dried rose buds, pluck petals and finely chop them. Set aside for garnish.
Soak & Prep Dates: Place 4 dates in a bowl. Pour boiling water over them and let soak 5 minutes until skins soften. Transfer dates to a cutting board, peel off skins, discard pits, and slice each date lengthwise into 2 halves.
Sauté Dates & Nuts: Heat an 8-inch non-stick pan over medium heat. Add butter and melt until foamy (1 minute). Reduce heat to medium-low, then add sliced dates and walnuts. Stir frequently for 5 minutes until dates caramelize slightly and release a nutty aroma.
Cook Eggs: Arrange caramelized dates cut-side down in a ring around the pan’s perimeter. Create a small well in the center, crack eggs into it, and season with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed 2 minutes until egg whites set and yolks are creamy (adjust time for doneness).
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped rose petals (if using), and extra cinnamon. Serve immediately with warm flatbread or toast for dipping.
User Reviews
“Tasted like a roasted French toast with dates! Substituted rose water for petals and added Greek yogurt. Super quick and delicious.”
“10/10! Added mint and sumac for brightness. The rose petals were pretty and fragrant.”
“Excluding bread, ~315 calories per serving. Used pistachios instead of walnuts—meatier and still sweet.”
“Toddler loved it! Tasted like sweet-savory scrambled eggs with a maple hint. Repeat!”
Gheysava balances caramelized sweetness with savory depth, perfect for a comforting, easy breakfast.