Halva a Greek Sweet Using Semolina

Discover the rich, comforting flavors of traditional Greek Halva, a semolina-based sweet that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. In this beloved dessert, toasted semolina is combined with a spiced syrup infused with cinnamon, cloves, honey, and a hint of zesty lemon peel, creating a symphony of warm and aromatic flavors. This unique no-bake recipe requires just a few pantry staples and comes together in under 30 minutes. Customize your halva with optional raisins and slivered almonds for added texture and natural sweetness, and finish with a dusting of fragrant ground cinnamon. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this easy-to-prepare Greek semolina halva is a must-try treat for family gatherings, festive occasions, or simply enjoying alongside a cup of coffee.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 0.5 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 strip lemon peel
• 0.5 cup raisins (optional)
• 0.25 cup slivered almonds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Start by preparing the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon peel.

Step 2

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Remove it from the heat and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 4

In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the semolina to the pan and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the semolina turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.

Step 6

Optional: Add the raisins and slivered almonds to the browned semolina, stirring to combine.

Step 7

Carefully pour the warm syrup into the semolina mixture in a steady stream. Be cautious as the syrup may splatter.

Step 8

Stir the mixture quickly to combine, and reduce the heat to low. The semolina will absorb the syrup and begin to thicken.

Step 9

Once the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, remove it from the heat.

Step 10

Spoon the halva mixture into a greased mold or individual serving dishes. Press down gently to shape it evenly.

Step 11

Let the halva cool to room temperature and solidify in the mold for about 1-2 hours before serving.

Step 12

Unmold (if using a mold), sprinkle with ground cinnamon, and garnish with additional slivered almonds if desired.

Step 13

Serve and enjoy this delicious Greek sweet!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1154.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3029.4

Total Fat 129.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 19.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 10.6g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 60.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 455.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.1g	0%
Total Sugars 286.9g
Protein 33.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 299.2mg	0%
Iron 7.0mg	0%
Potassium 1339.5mg	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: 37.3%

Protein: 4.3%

Carbs: 58.4%