Saffron-infused Sohan Halwa

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) almonds, chopped 1/2 cup (60g) almonds, chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios, chopped 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 15g (total), 8g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 27g (total), 15g (sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and remaining water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts.
3. 3.
   Add the saffron mixture to the saucepan and stir well.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the flour to the saucepan, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
5. 5.
   Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped almonds, pistachios, and cardamom powder.
7. 7.
   Grease a flat surface or a baking dish with butter and pour the halwa mixture onto it. Spread it evenly and let it cool completely.
8. 8.
   Once cooled and set, cut the halwa into diamond-shaped pieces.
9. 9.
   Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and aroma of saffron, lightly toast the threads in a dry pan before dissolving them in water.
• Almonds and pistachios — For added flavor, you can lightly roast the chopped nuts in a pan before adding them to the halwa mixture.

Tips & Tricks

• Be patient while cooking the halwa mixture over low heat. Stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
• If the halwa becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon of warm water at a time to adjust the consistency.
• For a more festive touch, garnish the halwa with additional chopped nuts before serving.
• Store the halwa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve Saffron-infused Sohan Halwa as a delightful dessert after a Persian feast or as a sweet treat with a cup of aromatic Iranian tea. It can also be served on special occasions such as weddings or celebrations.

Presentation advice

Arrange the diamond-shaped pieces of halwa on a decorative platter or individual dessert plates. Sprinkle some extra saffron threads on top for an elegant touch. Serve alongside a small bowl of Iranian tea for a complete Persian experience.