Semolina Halva with Ice Cream Recipe

 

Semolina Halva with Ice Cream Recipe

Semolina halva with ice cream is a beloved Turkish dessert, combining the warm, nutty flavor of halva with the cool, creamy surprise of ice cream. Here's how to make it at home!

Ingredients

For the Halva:

  • 1 cup semolina
  • 1/2 cup butter (or 125 g)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)

For the Syrup:

  • 1.5 cups milk
  • 1.5 cups water
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar

For Filling:

  • Vanilla or Maraş-style ice cream (firm and scoopable)

Instructions

Prepare the Syrup:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the milk, water, and sugar.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Once the mixture starts to steam (but before boiling), remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Halva:

  1. In a large, deep pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the semolina and pine nuts (if using). Stir constantly, toasting the semolina until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This takes about 10-15 minutes.

Add the Syrup:

  1. Carefully pour the prepared syrup into the toasted semolina mixture (it will bubble, so pour slowly).
  2. Stir continuously until the semolina absorbs the syrup and the mixture thickens.
  3. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for another 10 minutes.

Assemble with Ice Cream:

  1. Scoop out a portion of the warm halva and flatten it in your hand or a small bowl.
  2. Place a scoop of ice cream in the center and cover it with more halva, shaping it into a ball or mound.
  3. Repeat for additional servings.

Serve:

  1. Serve immediately, garnished with cinnamon, ground pistachios, or shredded coconut if desired.

Tips:

  • Use firm ice cream for the best results, as it will hold its shape better inside the warm halva.
  • For a richer flavor, you can use only milk instead of milk and water for the syrup.

Enjoy your Semolina Halva with Ice Cream, a warm and cool delight!