World Flavors Cookbook

Sooji Halwa

Semolina halwa with ghee, sugar, and cardamom — the sacred prasad sweet of Indian temples and the most beloved festival dessert.

Cuisine: India

Ingredients

• 200g semolina (sooji/rava)
• 150g sugar
• 100g ghee
• 600ml water
• 6 cardamom pods, crushed
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 2 tbsp cashews
• Pinch of saffron (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat ghee in a heavy pan. Fry cashews until golden. Remove.
2. Add semolina. Roast on medium heat, stirring, until fragrant and golden (8-10 min).
3. Boil water with sugar and cardamom.
4. Carefully pour hot water into roasted semolina.
5. Stir vigorously — it will splutter. Cook until thick.
6. Add raisins and cashews. Serve warm.