Gluten-Free Sooji Halwa

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Gluten-Free Sooji Halwa, a delightful adaptation of a cherished Indian dessert made accessible for those avoiding gluten. This recipe swaps traditional semolina with gluten-free semolina, maintaining the dish's signature texture while ensuring dietary inclusivity. Ghee-roasted cashews and golden raisins add a delightful crunch and sweetness, while fragrant cardamom and optional saffron elevate the halwa to a decadent treat. Perfectly golden and aromatic, this dessert is prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions or a cozy family dessert. Serve it warm, garnished with an extra sprinkle of nuts, for a mouthwatering finish that everyone will love!

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Gluten-free semolina
• 0.25 cup Ghee (clarified butter)
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 1.5 cups Water
• 3 Cardamom pods (crushed)
• 2 tablespoons Cashews (halved)
• 1.5 tablespoons Raisins
• 6 Saffron strands (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the crushed cardamom pods and saffron strands (if using). Let it simmer for a minute, then set aside.

Step 2

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cashews and sauté them until golden brown. Remove the cashews and set aside.

Step 3

In the same pan, add the raisins and sauté them until they puff up. Remove the raisins and set aside with the cashews.

Step 4

Add the gluten-free semolina to the remaining ghee in the pan. Roast it on medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning, until the semolina turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This step will take about 7–10 minutes.

Step 5

Slowly pour the warm water mixture into the roasted semolina, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Be cautious as the mixture may sputter.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir until the mixture thickens and begins to leave the sides of the pan.

Step 7

Add the sugar and mix well. The halwa will begin to loosen slightly as the sugar dissolves. Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes until the halwa thickens again.

Step 8

Stir in the sautéed cashews and raisins. Mix well to distribute them evenly throughout the halwa.

Step 9

Serve warm, garnished with additional nuts or saffron strands if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(721.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1654.4

Total Fat 69.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 38.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 151.5mg	0%
Sodium 40.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 246.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.5g	0%
Total Sugars 116.3g
Protein 15.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 107.3mg	0%
Iron 5.9mg	0%
Potassium 706.6mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.5%

Protein: 3.7%

Carbs: 58.8%