Halva (somali Xalwo)
Halva, also known as Xalwo in Somali cuisine, is a sweet and dense dessert that is popular in Somalia and other parts of the Horn of Africa. It is made with simple ingredients and is often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds or cashews
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat.
- Add the semolina and toast it in the ghee until it turns golden brown, stirring constantly.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the sugar and water and bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Slowly pour the sugar syrup into the toasted semolina while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the chopped nuts, cardamom, and cinnamon, and continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Transfer the halva to a greased dish and press it down evenly. Let it cool and set before cutting into squares or diamonds to serve.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 10 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 30 minutes
- Total time:
- 40 minutes
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 150 per serving
- Carbohydrates
- 25g
- Fat
- 5g
- Protein
- 2g
Supplies
Large pan Saucepan Stirring spoon Greased dish
Tools
Knife Cutting board
Serving suggestions
Halva can be served with a cup of Somali tea or as a sweet treat after a traditional Somali meal.
Tips & tricks
Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup to avoid burns. Stir the halva mixture continuously to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Cost
$5