Shanxi-style Sweet Potato Halv

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Halv from Swedish cuisine to Shanxi cuisine, the main difference lies in the use of sweet potatoes as the primary ingredient instead of semolina or wheat. The addition of Shanxi's signature spices, such as cinnamon and star anise, infuses the dish with a distinct flavor profile. The garnishes also differ, with crushed nuts and dried fruits being commonly used in Shanxi-style Sweet Potato Halv. We alse have the original recipe for Halv special, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) sweet potatoes, peeled and grated 500g (1.1 lb) sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 200g (1 cup) sugar 200g (1 cup) sugar
• 250ml (1 cup) whole milk 250ml (1 cup) whole milk
• 2 cinnamon sticks 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 50g (1/4 cup) crushed nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts), for garnish 50g (1/4 cup) crushed nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts), for garnish
• 50g (1/4 cup) dried fruits (e.g., raisins or apricots), for garnish 50g (1/4 cup) dried fruits (e.g., raisins or apricots), for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 40g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the grated sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
2. 2.
   Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency (approximately 30-40 minutes).
3. 3.
   Remove the cinnamon sticks and star anise from the mixture.
4. 4.
   Stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted and incorporated.
5. 5.
   Transfer the halv to serving bowls or molds and let it cool to room temperature.
6. 6.
   Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the halv to set.
7. 7.
   Garnish with crushed nuts and dried fruits before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to grate the sweet potatoes finely to ensure a smooth texture in the halv.
• Cinnamon sticks and star anise — If you prefer a milder spice flavor, you can reduce the amount of these spices or remove them earlier during cooking.
• Crushed nuts and dried fruits — Feel free to use your preferred nuts and dried fruits for garnishing, based on your personal taste preferences.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
• Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger to add your own twist to the halv.
• If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can increase the amount of sugar according to your taste.
• Serve the halv chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Leftover halv can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve Shanxi-style Sweet Potato Halv as a delightful dessert after a Shanxi-inspired meal. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can shape the halv into individual molds or ramekins before refrigerating. Once set, carefully unmold the halv onto serving plates and garnish with crushed nuts and dried fruits.