Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic Indian dessert with this Gluten-Free Sooji Halva, a heavenly treat that's perfect for those avoiding gluten. Made with gluten-free semolina (crafted from rice or corn), this easy and fragrant halva recipe is rich in flavor thanks to the use of ghee, aromatic cardamom, and optional saffron strands. A quick 25-minute recipe, it delivers a luscious, nutty sweetness, elevated by toasted cashews, plump raisins, and a touch of almond garnish. Whether you're celebrating a festive occasion or craving a comforting dessert, this gluten-free sooji halva offers a warm, melt-in-your-mouth experience that's perfect for any gluten-free or vegetarian menu.
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat and add the ghee.
Once the ghee melts, add the gluten-free semolina and roast it on low-medium heat, stirring constantly. Roast until it turns golden and emits a nutty aroma, about 8-10 minutes.
While the semolina is roasting, in a separate saucepan, bring the water to a gentle boil. Add the sugar, crushed cardamom pods, and saffron strands (if using) to the water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then turn off the heat.
When the semolina is roasted, reduce the heat to low and carefully add the sugar water mixture to the pan. Be cautious as it may splatter. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
Cook the mixture on low heat until the semolina absorbs all the liquid and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
In a small pan, heat an additional teaspoon of ghee (optional) and fry the chopped cashews and raisins until golden. Add them to the halva and stir to combine.
Turn off the heat and let the halva rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with slivered almonds, if desired, before serving.
Serve warm as a dessert or festive treat.
Calories |
1874 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.6 g | 93% | |
| Saturated Fat | 37.4 g | 187% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 178 mg | 59% | |
| Sodium | 32 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 285.9 g | 104% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.0 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 120.7 g | ||
| Protein | 19.6 g | 39% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 91 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 497 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.