Halawa Taheen

Halawa Taheen Recipe - Traditional Arabian Dessert

Region / culture: Arabia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Halawa Taheen is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is popular in many countries in the region. This sweet treat is made from a few simple ingredients, including flour, oil, sugar, and nuts. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat after a meal.

History

Halawa Taheen has a long history in the Middle East and is believed to have originated in Egypt. The dessert has been enjoyed for centuries and is often served during religious holidays and celebrations. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include different variations and flavors.

Ingredients

225 g (8 oz) plain flour
200 ml (7 fl oz) oil
0.5 dozen whole blanched almonds
handful ground pistachios

Syrup

1000 ml (18 fl oz) water
250 g (9 oz) sugar
5 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cardamom
6 tsp rose water

How to prepare

First, prepare the syrup by placing the water and sugar in a medium-sized saucepan.
Add cardamom, rosewater, and lemon juice.
Boil for 5 minutes or until the sugar dissolves.
Set the syrup aside to cool.
In a separate medium-sized saucepan, heat the oil on high for 5 minutes.
Dip the almonds into the hot oil until they turn slightly red, then remove and set them aside for later use.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the flour to the oil.
Mix the flour until it turns reddish brown in color.
Now, add the cooled syrup to the mixture and mix well.
Continue mixing until the mixture starts to bubble and thickens like a dough.
Remove the mixture from the heat and spoon it onto a platter.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Substitute honey for the sugar in the syrup for a natural sweetener.
Use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or cashews, for a unique twist on this traditional dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the almonds before adding them to the dessert to remove the skins and enhance their flavor.

- When cooking the flour in the oil, be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- Allow the syrup to cool before adding it to the flour mixture to prevent the mixture from becoming too thin.

- For a richer flavor, you can add additional nuts or spices to the dessert, such as ground pistachios or cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

Halawa Taheen can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It is often garnished with ground pistachios or almonds for added flavor and texture. This dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the flour in the oil until it turns reddish brown to ensure a rich and nutty flavor.

- Stir the flour mixture constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before spooning it onto a platter to set.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute almond or coconut oil for the vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

- Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar in the syrup for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

Halawa Taheen can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat the dessert in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Halawa Taheen on a decorative platter garnished with whole almonds and a sprinkle of ground pistachios for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle the dessert with additional syrup for added sweetness.

Pairing Recommendations

Halawa Taheen pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful treat. You can also serve this dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Halawa Taheen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave the dessert for a few seconds or heat it on the stovetop until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Halawa Taheen contains approximately 300 calories. While this dessert is high in calories, it is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Halawa Taheen contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of Halawa Taheen contains approximately 20 grams of fat. While fats are high in calories, they are also important for providing energy and supporting cell growth and function.

Proteins

Each serving of Halawa Taheen contains approximately 5 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is important for overall health and well-being.

Vitamins and minerals

Halawa Taheen is a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It also contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are important for various bodily functions.

Alergens

Halawa Taheen contains nuts and wheat, which are common allergens. If you have a nut or wheat allergy, be sure to avoid this dessert or make substitutions as needed.

Summary

Overall, Halawa Taheen is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also contains vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and well-being. Enjoy this sweet treat in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Halawa Taheen is a delicious and decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat after a meal. This traditional Middle Eastern dessert is rich in flavor and texture, making it a favorite among many. Enjoy this sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful and satisfying experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Halawa Taheen. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Fatima in her cozy little kitchen. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread, and I could hear the sound of her children playing outside.

Fatima had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me a small piece of the halawa taheen she had just made. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – a rich, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness that lingered on my tongue. I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe.

She smiled and began to tell me the story of how she had learned to make this delicious treat. She explained that halawa taheen is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made from sesame paste, sugar, and a touch of rose water. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations in her family, and she had learned to make it from her own grandmother.

As she spoke, I could see the love and pride she had for this recipe shining in her eyes. She shared with me the secrets and techniques that had been handed down to her, and I listened eagerly, taking mental notes of every step.

After spending the afternoon with Fatima, I left her house with a newfound determination to master the art of making halawa taheen. I went home and gathered the ingredients – sesame paste, sugar, rose water, and a few other simple things. I set to work in my own kitchen, following the steps that Fatima had taught me.

The process was not as easy as I had anticipated. Mixing the sesame paste with sugar and water required patience and a delicate touch. I had to stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning, and I had to watch it carefully as it thickened and took on a glossy sheen.

But as I worked, I felt a sense of satisfaction and joy. The familiar aroma of sesame and rose water filled my kitchen, transporting me back to Fatima's cozy kitchen. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through the recipe, urging me to be patient and gentle with the mixture.

Finally, after what seemed like hours, the halawa taheen was ready. I poured it into a dish and let it cool before cutting it into small squares. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with the rich, nutty flavor that I had come to love.

I shared the halawa taheen with my family, who marveled at its unique taste and texture. They couldn't believe that I had made it myself, and they begged me to make it again and again.

From that day on, halawa taheen became a staple in our household. I made it for special occasions and gatherings, and it always brought smiles to the faces of those who tasted it. I had mastered the recipe, thanks to the guidance and wisdom of my dear friend Fatima.

As the years passed, I continued to make halawa taheen, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. I shared with them the story of how I had learned to make this delicious dessert from Fatima, and how it had become a cherished tradition in our family.

And so, the recipe for halawa taheen lives on, a testament to the power of friendship, tradition, and the joy of cooking. It is a reminder of the bond that can be created through sharing food and stories, and of the simple pleasures that can be found in a sweet treat made with love.