A Sweet Semolina Saffron Pudding (Sooji Halva)
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Author Notes: Sooji Halva is a very popular Indian dessert. It is often made for special occasions or celebrations, and is also often used as an offering to the Gods (called a prasad).
It does not have to be a special occasion for us to make it though! We often just crave the rich yet subtle flavors, and contrasting textures of the soft semolina and crunchy nuts. Making it a uniquely rich comfort food!
- elizabeth c
Makes about 4 cups
- 1 stick of butter, unsalted
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 cups water
- 1 pinch saffron
- 10 green cardamom pods (crushed and muddled, discard the shells, use the seeds)*
- 15 pistachios (crushed)*
- 15 raw almonds (slivered)*
- *save some of each to use as a garnish
- In a medium/large saucepan, on low heat, slowly melt together the butter and semolina. Stir occasionally and mix well, until the mixture is golden/dark brown. (This should take about 20 minutes).
- At the same time, in a separate small/medium sized saucepan, on medium/low, heat the sugar, water, saffron and cardamom seeds. Heat well, so the sugar dissolves (boiling is okay but not necessary).
- When the sugar has dissolved and the semolina is brown, carefully add the sugar water to the semolina (it may bubble a lot, turn the heat down if necessary). Stir well.
- Stir in most of the almonds and pistachios (reserving some to use as a garnish). Keep stirring and cooking on low for about 7-10 minutes, (until all of the water is absorbed and the surface areas that have contact with the pan get smooth).
- Enjoy served warm and topped with the remaining crushed pistachios, slivered almonds and crushed cardamom seeds.
- This recipe was entered in the contest for Your Best Pudding
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about 2 years ago gingerroot
I'm not sure how I missed this...I love halva and this sounds amazing. Saving and look forward to trying soon.
about 2 years ago Naureen
Sooji Ka Halwa is yum and easy to make. It's delicious with Puri (Fried Indian/Pakistani flatbred).
about 2 years ago elizabeth c
I couldn't agree more!
about 2 years ago Sagegreen
Love semolina and butter, but with saffron, cardamom and almonds, even better!
about 2 years ago elizabeth c
Indeed, they are a unique combination! Congratulations on your win with your Variegated Spiced Latkes, I have the recipe saved and look forward to trying them soon!
about 2 years ago Jessica Tom
I love this. The ingredient list on its own transports me!
about 2 years ago elizabeth c
Thanks! I think I'd have to agree and love your perspective!
about 2 years ago elizabeth c
Thanks! Yeah I made it yesterday (so I could take a photograph) and my husband and I enjoyed it last night... it's a perfect dessert for Midwest winters!
about 2 years ago AntoniaJames
AntoniaJames is a trusted source on Bread/Baking.
Excellent recipe! Yes, that sure looks like comfort food to me. I've been wanting to make a semolina pudding forever. Thanks for posting this!! ;o)