Omani Cardamom Halwa

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) semolina 1 cup (200g) semolina
• 1 cup (240ml) ghee 1 cup (240ml) ghee
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rosewater 1/4 cup (60ml) rosewater
• 1/4 cup (30g) slivered almonds, for garnish 1/4 cup (30g) slivered almonds, for garnish
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios, for garnish 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large non-stick pan, melt the ghee over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the semolina to the pan and cook, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and saffron strands. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
4. 4.
   Slowly pour in the rosewater while stirring the mixture. Continue cooking and stirring until the halwa thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
5. 5.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the halwa cool for a few minutes.
6. 6.
   Transfer the halwa to a greased dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool completely.
7. 7.
   Once cooled, garnish the halwa with slivered almonds and chopped pistachios.
8. 8.
   Cut the halwa into squares or diamond shapes and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Semolina — Toast the semolina until it turns golden brown to enhance its nutty flavor.
• Saffron strands — Soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk for a few minutes before adding them to the halwa. This will help release their vibrant color and aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• Stir the halwa continuously while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
• For a richer flavor, you can substitute a portion of the ghee with clarified butter (ghee).

Serving advice

Serve Omani Cardamom Halwa warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a cup of traditional Omani coffee or a refreshing glass of rosewater lemonade.

Presentation advice

Present the Omani Cardamom Halwa on a decorative platter, garnished with additional slivered almonds and pistachios. You can also sprinkle a pinch of ground cardamom on top for an extra touch of elegance.