Low Sodium Traditional Semolina Halva

Discover the delightful simplicity of Low Sodium Traditional Semolina Halva, a lighter twist on a cherished dessert classic. This recipe features nutty toasted semolina, sweetened naturally with honey or your favorite natural sweetener, for a guilt-free indulgence. Enhanced with unsalted butter (or a low-sodium alternative), aromatic vanilla, and a warm hint of cinnamon, this comforting treat is both heart-healthy and flavorful. Crunchy raw nuts and optional dried fruits add a delightful texture, while the easy-to-follow recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve this low sodium Mediterranean-inspired halva warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra nuts or cinnamon for a wholesome yet satisfying dessert.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (or low-sodium alternative)
• 2 cups water
• 0.5 cup honey (or natural sweetener of choice)
• 0.25 cup unsalted raw nuts (like almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts)
• 0.25 cup raisins or dried fruit (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the honey and vanilla extract. Keep the mixture warm over low heat while preparing the semolina.

Step 2

In a separate large skillet or non-stick pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the semolina and begin stirring continuously.

Step 3

Toast the semolina in the butter, stirring frequently, until it becomes golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 8 to 10 minutes. Be mindful to stir constantly to prevent burning.

Step 4

Add the nuts to the skillet and continue to stir for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing them to toast lightly. If using raisins or dried fruit, stir them in at this stage.

Step 5

Carefully pour the warm honey-water mixture into the skillet with the semolina, stirring constantly. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up rapidly.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the skillet, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 7

Once the halva has reached the desired consistency, sprinkle in the cinnamon powder and mix well.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from the heat and cover it with a lid. Allow the halva to rest for 5 minutes to steam and set.

Step 9

Serve the halva warm or at room temperature. Garnish with additional cinnamon or chopped nuts, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(977.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2195.1

Total Fat 113.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 62.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 258.3mg	0%
Sodium 34.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 274.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.8g	0%
Total Sugars 128.7g
Protein 31.6g	0%

Vitamin D 75IU	0%
Calcium 200.9mg	0%
Iron 4.9mg	0%
Potassium 958.5mg	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: 45.6%

Protein: 5.6%

Carbs: 48.8%