Xalwa – Somalian Halwa

May 16, 2023May 16, 20230 12

Delicious Xalwa - Somalian Halwa recipe

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

431

Sugar

57g

Fat

22g

Xalwa, also known as halwa, is a popular dessert that is often served in Somalia. It's a sweet and sticky dessert that has a unique texture and a delicious flavor. The dessert is made from sugar, cornflour, water, cardamom, and ghee. The ingredients are cooked together over low heat, creating a sweet and sticky mixture that is poured into a greased dish and allowed to cool before being cut into squares. Xalwa is often served with tea or coffee and is a staple dessert in many Somali households.

Instructions

1.	Combine the 1 1/2 liters of water and raw sugar in a large pot and cook over medium-high heat.
2.	Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3.	In a separate bowl, mix cornflour and 250 ml of water. Stir until there are no lumps.
4.	Add the cornflour mixture to the sugar mixture and stir constantly, making sure there are no lumps.
5.	Add the crushed cardamom seeds and ghee to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid having the mixture stick to the bottom of the pot until the mix becomes thick and glossy.
6.	Pour the Xalwa into a greased dish and level it off. Allow it to cool to room temperature before cutting it into squares and serving.

PROS

Xalwa is a delicious dessert that is easy to make, and it stores well.

It can be heated up in the microwave for a quick and easy snack.

Xalwa doesn’t contain gluten, and it’s a great gluten-free dessert option.

CONS

Xalwa is high in calories, fat, and sugar, so it should be eaten in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Xalwa contains a large amount of sugar and fat, but it also has some health benefits.
The cardamom in the recipe has been shown to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also said to help with digestion, reduce blood pressure, and lower blood sugar levels.

	2 kg raw sugar
	1 1/2 lt water
	300 g cornflour ( cornstarch )
	250 ml water
	90 g cardamom seeds , crushed
	300 g ghee