Mediterranean Diet Sooji Halwa

Elevate a traditional favorite with this Mediterranean Diet Sooji Halwa, a wholesome and aromatic dessert infused with heart-healthy ingredients. This modern twist on the classic Indian semolina pudding substitutes ghee with extra virgin olive oil and refined sugar with honey, creating a lighter, nutrient-rich treat without sacrificing flavor. Enriched with creamy unsweetened almond milk, medjool dates, and a medley of almonds and pistachios, every bite is packed with natural sweetness and crunch. The warm hint of cardamom adds a fragrant finish, making this dessert irresistible. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for satisfying cravings while staying true to Mediterranean diet principles. Serve it warm or at room temperature, garnished with slivered nuts for an elegant touch!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina (sooji)
• 0.333 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cups water
• 0.5 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 4 pieces medjool dates, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons raw almonds, chopped
• 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons slivered almonds or pistachios (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a saucepan, combine water, unsweetened almond milk, and honey. Heat on medium flame until the liquid warms and the honey dissolves completely. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Add the semolina (sooji) to the pan and stir continuously. Roast the semolina for 7-10 minutes, or until it turns golden and emits a nutty aroma.

Step 4

Add the cardamom powder, chopped almonds, chopped pistachios, and finely chopped dates to the roasted semolina. Mix well to evenly distribute the nuts and dates.

Step 5

Lower the flame and carefully pour the warm liquid mixture (water, almond milk, honey) into the roasted semolina. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 6

Continue to cook the mixture on low heat, stirring frequently, until the semolina absorbs all the liquid and the halwa reaches a thick consistency (this should take about 5-7 minutes).

Step 7

Turn off the heat and cover the pan. Let the halwa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 8

Garnish with slivered almonds or pistachios before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1089.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2109.0

Total Fat 101.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 13.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 94.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 280.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.0g	0%
Total Sugars 118.7g
Protein 36.9g	0%

Vitamin D 43.9IU	0%
Calcium 441.3mg	0%
Iron 6.0mg	0%
Potassium 1523.8mg	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: 41.7%

Protein: 6.8%

Carbs: 51.5%