Known in Egypt as 'black honey', molasses is extracted from sugar cane, which grows well in Egypt's hot summers.
Traditionally kept for relatively long periods in earthenware jars known as ballas بلاص, it does not need refrigiration.
Molasses is used to sweeten some dessert dishes and jam-like preserves.
It is also used as a snack dip and dessert, in combination with tahini and pita bread.