Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- 8-inch square baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the semolina to the melted butter and stir continuously for 5-7 minutes or until the semolina turns golden brown.
4. Add the chopped pecans to the semolina mixture and stir for another minute.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, water, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
6. Slowly pour the milk mixture into the semolina mixture, stirring continuously until well combined.
7. Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with butter and line it with parchment paper.
8. Pour the semolina mixture into the baking dish and smooth out the surface.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
11. Cut the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva into small squares and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
Makes 16 small squares
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Total fat: 9g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 25mg
Total carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any other nuts instead of pecans.
- You can use almond extract instead of vanilla extract.
Variations:
- You can add raisins or dried cranberries to the mixture before baking.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Stir the semolina continuously to prevent it from burning.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture as it will prevent the semolina from sticking to the spoon.
- Let the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva cool down before cutting it into small squares.
Storage instructions:
Store the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva for 15-20 seconds before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add more milk.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more semolina.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and store the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva in the refrigerator.
Food history:
Saray Helva is a traditional Turkish dessert made with semolina, sugar, and butter.
Flavor profiles:
The Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva has a nutty and sweet flavor with a hint of vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Vanilla-Pecan Saray Helva as a dessert or a sweet snack.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Turkish
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Creamy, Vanilla, Vanilla-Flavored