Somali Sweet (Halwad-Halwo-Halwa)

May 16, 2023May 16, 20230 11
A Sweet and Colorful Halwa Recipe from Somalia
in Dessert

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon orange food color powder
4 cups water
3 cups sugar
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ( an intoxicant which means it is not halal , may substitute less allspice )
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup butter or 1/2 cup ghee
1/4 cup peanuts ( optional )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
437
Sugar
91g
Fat
22g
Somali Sweet or Halwa is a popular dessert in Somalia and other parts of Africa and the Middle East. It is often served on special occasions such as weddings, religious celebrations, and family gatherings. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great recipe to add to your repertoire. The halwa can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to a month.

Instructions

1.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and orange food coloring powder.
2.Add the water to the bowl and whisk well to combine.
3.Pour the mixture into a large pot and add the sugar, brown sugar, cardamom powder, and nutmeg.
4.Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil.
5.Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes or until it thickens.
6.Add the oil, butter or ghee, and peanuts to the pot and stir well to combine.
7.Cook the mixture for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thick and glossy.
8.Remove the pot from heat and let the halwa cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a greased pan.
9.Smooth the surface of the halwa and let it cool completely before cutting it into squares or diamonds.

PROS

Somali Sweet or Halwa is a delightful dessert that is sweet, colorful, and easy to make.

It has a smooth texture and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert at any time of day.

CONS

While this recipe calls for peanuts, they are optional, and the halwa can be made without them for those with nut allergies.

The halwa is high in sugar and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Somali Sweet or Halwa is not a health food, it can provide a quick energy boost and lift your mood on a dark day.
The orange food coloring used in this recipe is often used to aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
Cardamom is another ingredient that has been linked to reducing inflammation and aiding digestion, making it a great spice to include in your diet.

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