Low Fat Traditional Semolina Halva

Indulge in the comforting sweetness of this Low Fat Traditional Semolina Halva, a lighter twist on a beloved Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dessert. Crafted with golden-toasted semolina, subtly sweetened with a blend of low-fat milk, water, and sugar, this recipe achieves a creamy, pudding-like texture without the heaviness of traditional versions. Olive oil replaces butter for a heart-healthy richness, while optional touches of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon elevate the flavors to perfection. Garnish with toasted almonds or pistachios for a delightful crunch, and serve warm for a soul-soothing treat that’s ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for those seeking a quick, low-fat dessert that doesn’t compromise on nostalgic flavor!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 1 cup water
• 0.5 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons toasted almonds or pistachios (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the low-fat milk, water, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, but do not allow it to boil. Once warm, remove it from the heat and set aside.

Step 2

In a large nonstick pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the semolina and stir continuously, toasting it gently. Cook the semolina for 8-10 minutes, or until it turns a golden brown color and begins to release its nutty aroma.

Step 3

Lower the heat to medium-low and carefully pour the warm milk mixture into the toasted semolina, stirring constantly. Be cautious, as it may splatter.

Step 4

Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and comes together into a soft, pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using. Cover the pan with a lid and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Step 6

Spoon the halva into serving bowls or mold it into shapes using a spoon or small bowls.

Step 7

Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and toasted nuts, if desired, before serving warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1057.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1672.2

Total Fat 47.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 38.4mg	0%
Sodium 252.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 264.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.5g	0%
Total Sugars 123.4g
Protein 43.0g	0%

Vitamin D 201.6IU	0%
Calcium 711.9mg	0%
Iron 3.3mg	0%
Potassium 470.4mg	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: 25.8%

Protein: 10.4%

Carbs: 63.8%