Sugar-Free Traditional Semolina Halva
Transform a beloved classic into a guilt-free indulgence with this Sugar-Free Traditional Semolina Halva recipe! Perfectly sweetened with nutrient-rich dates, this refined sugar-free dessert preserves the nutty, aromatic essence of traditional halva while offering a healthier twist. Toasted semolina pairs beautifully with warm milk and a hint of cinnamon, creating a silky texture that's enhanced by crunchy chopped nuts and optional raisins. Whether you're following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle, this customizable recipe ensures everyone can enjoy its wholesome goodness. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's the ultimate quick, satisfying dessert for health-conscious foodies and dessert enthusiasts alike. Serve warm or at room temperature, and savor every bite of this naturally sweetened treat!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Semolina
- 1 cup Unsweetened dates (pitted)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup Milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free version)
- 0.5 cup Butter (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
- 0.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
- 0.25 cup Chopped nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)
- 2 tablespoons Raisins (optional)
Instructions
In a small bowl, soak the unsweetened dates in 1/2 cup of warm water for 10 minutes to soften them, then blend into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and the remaining 1.5 cups of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Set aside.
In a large, deep pan, melt the butter (or coconut oil) over medium heat. Add the semolina and toast it, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This process takes about 8-10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and carefully pour the warm milk-water mixture into the toasted semolina, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Be cautious, as the mixture may splatter.
Once the liquid is fully absorbed, stir in the date paste, mixing well to evenly distribute the natural sweetness.
Add the ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins (if using). Mix thoroughly and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the halva begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Remove the pan from heat. Cover and let the halva rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Spoon the halva into a serving dish or mold, pressing it down for a smooth finish. Garnish with additional chopped nuts if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2466 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 117.9 g | 151% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.5 g | 318% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 262 mg | 87% | |
| Sodium | 203 mg | 9% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 339.8 g | 124% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 28.0 g | 100% | |
| Total Sugars | 171.8 g | ||
| Protein | 35.8 g | 72% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.3 mcg | 17% | |
| Calcium | 741 mg | 57% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 2546 mg | 54% | |
*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.
