Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Large non-stick pan
- Wooden spoon
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large non-stick pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the semolina and stir constantly until it turns golden brown.
3. Add the sugar and water to the pan and stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the chopped walnuts and dates to the pan and stir until they are evenly distributed.
5. Add the vanilla extract and stir until everything is well combined.
6. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
7. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Smooth the surface of the mixture with a spatula and let it cool to room temperature.
9. Once the mixture has cooled, cut it into small squares or diamond shapes.
10. Serve the Date-Walnut Saray Helva at room temperature.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for toasting the semolina
- Low heat for cooking the mixture
Serving size:
- Makes about 20 small squares or diamond shapes
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any other type of nut instead of walnuts, such as almonds or pistachios.
- You can use any other type of dried fruit instead of dates, such as raisins or apricots.
Variations:
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the mixture for extra flavor.
- You can drizzle some honey or syrup over the Date-Walnut Saray Helva before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to stir the semolina constantly while toasting it to prevent it from burning.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom.
- Let the mixture cool completely before cutting it into small squares or diamond shapes.
Storage instructions:
- Store the Date-Walnut Saray Helva in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- You can reheat the Date-Walnut Saray Helva in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the small squares or diamond shapes on a platter and sprinkle some powdered sugar over them.
- Serve the Date-Walnut Saray Helva with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea.
Garnishes:
- You can garnish the Date-Walnut Saray Helva with some chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Pairings:
- Serve the Date-Walnut Saray Helva as a dessert after a Middle Eastern or Turkish meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- You can serve the Date-Walnut Saray Helva with some fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little bit of water to it and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the mixture is too wet, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients and store the Date-Walnut Saray Helva in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Saray helva is a traditional Turkish dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- The Date-Walnut Saray Helva has a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Date-Walnut Saray Helva as a dessert after a Middle Eastern or Turkish meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Turkish
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Rich, Caramelized