Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup rosewater
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup pistachios
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Large non-stick pan
- Wooden spoon
- Serving 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, about 10 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, combine the sugar, water, and saffron threads. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the rosewater to the sugar mixture and stir.
5. Add the sugar mixture to the semolina mixture and stir well.
6. Add a pinch of salt and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
7. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Grease a serving dish with butter and pour the helva mixture into it.
9. Smooth the surface with a spoon and sprinkle slivered almonds and pistachios on top.
10. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 50mg
Sugar: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use ghee instead of butter.
- You can use orange blossom water instead of rosewater.
- You can use any nuts of your choice for the topping.
Variations:
- You can add chopped dates or raisins to the helva mixture for extra sweetness.
- You can add cardamom powder for a spicy flavor.
- You can add grated coconut for a tropical twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Stir constantly while cooking the semolina to avoid burning.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.
- Let the helva cool for a few minutes before pouring it into the serving dish to avoid cracking.
- Toast the nuts before using them for a richer flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store the helva in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave the helva for 30 seconds or until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the helva on a decorative plate or in a traditional Turkish copper bowl.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some edible rose petals on top for a beautiful presentation.
Pairings:
Serve the helva with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the helva with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the helva is too dry, add a little bit of warm water and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the helva 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 helva properly in the refrigerator.
Food history:
Saray helva is a traditional Turkish dessert that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Flavor profiles:
The helva has a nutty and sweet flavor with a hint of floral notes from the rosewater.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the helva as a dessert after a Turkish meal or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
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Region: Turkish