SWEET SOMALI HALWA/XALWO RECIPE

ghee

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Coconut oil provides a similar richness with less saturated fat.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds natural sweetness with a different flavor profile.

nuts

🥗Healthier: seeds

💰Cheaper: dried fruits

Seeds can provide crunch while being more affordable.

rose water

🥗Healthier: orange blossom water

💰Cheaper: vanilla extract

Orange blossom water offers a floral note at a lower cost.

Boil water in a large pot over medium heat.

Add sugar to the boiling water and stir until dissolved.

In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.

Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the sugar mixture, stirring continuously.

Cook the mixture until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot, about 10-15 minutes.

Stir in ghee, cardamom, and vanilla, mixing well to combine.

Add rose water and saffron, stirring until evenly distributed.

Pour the mixture into a greased dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Allow to cool at room temperature until set, about 1-2 hours.

Cut into squares or diamond shapes for serving.

Garnish with chopped nuts and dried fruits before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens