Omani Halwa is a traditional dessert that combines the rich flavor of ghee (clarified butter), aromatic spices, and a dense jelly-like texture. It’s a beloved sweet treat in Oman and the Gulf region, known for its unique and indulgent taste. Making it at home requires patience and attention to detail, but the result is a sweet, flavorful dessert that is sure to impress.
Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make authentic Omani Halwa from scratch.
Omani Halwa (Sweet Jelly Dessert)Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups ghee (clarified butter)
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2 cups sugar
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4 cups water
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½ cup cornstarch (cornflour)
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2 teaspoons rose water
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1 teaspoon saffron strands (soaked in warm water)
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1 teaspoon ground cardamom
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1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or walnuts)
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1 cup dates (optional, chopped)
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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1 tablespoon orange food coloring (optional, for color)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Omani Halwa (Sweet Jelly Dessert) Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients (10 minutes)
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Saffron: Soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm water and set aside. This helps release the aroma and color.
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Nuts and Dates: Chop the nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts) and dates (if using) into small pieces.
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Water and Cornstarch: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 cups of water, making a smooth paste.
Step 2: Cooking the Ghee and Sugar (15 minutes)
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In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 ½ cups of ghee over medium heat.
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Once the ghee is melted, add 2 cups of sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Allow the sugar and ghee mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture will begin to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Adding Water and Cornstarch (10 minutes)
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Gradually add the water and cornstarch mixture to the ghee and sugar mixture while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
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Keep stirring until the mixture starts thickening into a gel-like consistency. This will take about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Adding Spices and Flavorings (5 minutes)
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Once the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, add rose water, ground cardamom, and the soaked saffron water.
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If you’re using orange food coloring, add it now to achieve that beautiful amber color.
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Stir in lemon juice for a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
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Optionally, you can also add vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
Step 5: Adding Nuts and Dates (5 minutes)
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Add the chopped nuts and dates (if using) to the Halwa mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients throughout the dessert.
Step 6: Final Cooking and Setting (20-30 minutes)
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Continue to cook the Halwa mixture on low heat for another 20-30 minutes, stirring continuously. The mixture will begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, which indicates that it is ready.
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Once the Halwa has thickened and is firm enough to hold its shape, transfer it to a greased dish or mold. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving (2 hours)
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Allow the Omani Halwa to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours or until it has completely set and firmed up.
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Once set, cut the Halwa into squares or cubes and serve.
Time Breakdown:
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
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Cooling Time: 2 hours
Tips for Perfect Omani Halwa:
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Stirring is Key: Continuous stirring is crucial to avoid lumps and ensure the mixture achieves its jelly-like consistency.
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Adjust Sweetness: You can reduce or increase the amount of sugar depending on your sweetness preference.
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Storage: Store your Omani Halwa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate it for longer shelf life.
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Customize with More Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Enjoy your homemade Omani Halwa, a luxurious and rich dessert that will delight your family and friends with its unforgettable taste!
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