Recipe of the Day

Halwa – Date Dessert

posted on: Dec 8, 2014

In Oman, halwa, literally meaning sweet, similar to Turkish Delight is usually bought [,] in large urban centres, ready made in shops. One of the important cottage industries, it is famous as a symbol of traditional Omani hospitality and is served on any special occasions such as religious holidays. This traditional favoured sweet is a symbol of the country and a trade handed down from father to son. Today this Omani renowned sweet has become famous throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

• 1 pound dates, pitted and chopped
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons starch, dissolved in 1/4-cup water
• 1/2 cup slivered and toasted almonds
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons rosewater
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• pinch of saffron
• 1 egg, beaten (optional)

Place dates and water in a saucepan then bring to boil, stirring a number of times. Cook over medium/low heat for 1 minute, stirring often and adding more water if needed. Stir in sugar and cook for a few minutes then stir in the dissolved starch. Cook over low heat until the saucepan content thickens, stirring often. Stir in remaining ingredients and cook for 2 minutes, continually stirring. Allow to cool for a few hours in a refrigerator before serving.