Castilian-Leonese Style Habshi Halwa

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have replaced the traditional Indian ingredients like ghee and jaggery with locally available ingredients from Castilian-Leonese cuisine. Instead of ghee, we use olive oil to add a distinct flavor. The use of almonds instead of black gram lentils gives the halwa a unique twist. Additionally, we incorporate honey as a sweetener, which adds a delicate floral note to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Habshi halwa, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) ground almonds 2 cups (240g) ground almonds
• 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
• Slivered almonds and pistachios, for garnish Slivered almonds and pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 25g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the ground almonds and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
3. 3.
   In a separate saucepan, combine water, sugar, honey, cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the almond mixture to the saucepan. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
5. 5.
   Cook the mixture on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Transfer the halwa to a serving dish and garnish with slivered almonds and pistachios.
8. 8.
   Allow it to cool completely before serving. Cut into squares or diamond shapes and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use ground almonds for a smooth texture in the halwa. You can grind whole almonds in a food processor or use store-bought almond flour.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, toast the slivered almonds and pistachios before garnishing the halwa.
• For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the water with milk or almond milk.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less honey.

Serving advice

Serve Castilian-Leonese Style Habshi Halwa warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

Present the halwa in an elegant serving dish, garnished with a sprinkle of saffron strands and a few slivered almonds and pistachios on top. You can also dust it with a touch of ground cinnamon for an extra visual appeal.