Sugar-Free Sooji Halva
Indulge guilt-free with this Sugar-Free Sooji Halva, a wholesome twist on the classic Indian dessert! Perfectly sweetened with nutrient-rich dates and ripe banana, this recipe eliminates refined sugar while delivering a naturally luscious flavor profile. The semolina (sooji) is gently roasted in ghee to achieve a golden hue and nutty aroma, then simmered with a warm blend of milk, water, and fruit-based sweetness for a creamy, satisfying texture. A pinch of aromatic cardamom elevates the dish, while optional garnishes like slivered almonds and raisins add delightful crunch and chew. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is ideal for festive occasions or a healthy indulgence any day. With vegan-friendly substitutions available, it’s a delicious treat everyone can enjoy!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Semolina (sooji/rava)
- 2 tablespoons Clarified butter (ghee)
- 2 cups Milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
- 1 cup Water
- 10 pieces Pitted dates (finely chopped or blended into a paste)
- 1 medium Ripe banana (mashed)
- 0.5 teaspoons Cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons Slivered almonds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Raisins (optional)
Instructions
In a medium-sized pan, heat the ghee on low to medium heat.
Add the semolina (sooji) to the pan and roast it in the ghee while stirring continuously until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This should take approximately 8-10 minutes. Ensure it doesn’t burn by stirring constantly.
While the semolina is roasting, in a separate saucepan, warm the milk and water together. Once warm, add the finely chopped dates or date paste to this mixture and stir until the dates soften and blend in. Keep the mixture warm but not boiling.
Once the semolina is roasted, slowly add the warm milk and date mixture to the pan while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble and splatter initially.
Cook the mixture on low heat for 3-5 minutes while stirring until the liquid is fully absorbed and the halva thickens.
Mash the ripe banana and stir it into the halva for additional natural sweetness and creaminess. Mix well.
Add the cardamom powder and mix thoroughly. At this stage, the halva should be fragrant and have a smooth consistency.
Optionally, stir in the raisins and slivered almonds for texture, or use them as a garnish on top when serving.
Turn off the heat and let the halva sit for 2-3 minutes before serving warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2202 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.2 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.7 g | 108% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 97 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 214 mg | 9% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 423.2 g | 154% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.5 g | 116% | |
| Total Sugars | 236.3 g | ||
| Protein | 50.0 g | 100% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.0 mcg | 30% | |
| Calcium | 898 mg | 69% | |
| Iron | 6.5 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 3722 mg | 79% | |
*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.
