Making Traditional Azerbaijani Helva and Delicious Cake

semolina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and adds flavor.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey offers a natural sweetness.

pistachios

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Almonds provide similar crunch and flavor.

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until foamy.

Add semolina and stir continuously until golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.

In a separate pot, combine sugar and water; bring to a boil until sugar dissolves completely.

Stir in lemon juice into the sugar syrup.

Pour the sugar syrup slowly into the toasted semolina, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides.

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring to a greased dish.

Press the mixture firmly into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Garnish with chopped pistachios and walnuts before serving.

Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens