Ingredients for Orange Semolina Halva (Portakallı İrmik Helvası)
- 1.5 water glasses (about 300 ml / 1½ cups) orange juice
- 1 water glass (about 200 ml / ¾ cup + 1 tbsp) water
- 1 orange zest (grated)
- 1.5 water glasses (about 300 ml / 1½ cups) granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Half a tea glass (about 50 ml / 3 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 1 packet pine nuts (dolmalık fıstık)
- 1.5 water glasses (about 300 ml / 1½ cups) semolina
How to Make Orange Semolina Halva (Portakallı İrmik Helvası)
For the syrup: Place 1.5 water glasses of orange juice, 1 water glass of water, 1 grated orange zest, and 1.5 water glasses of granulated sugar into a saucepan and stir until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, remove from heat.
In a separate saucepan, add 3 tablespoons of butter and half a tea glass of vegetable oil. Once melted, add 1 packet of pine nuts and 1.5 water glasses of semolina and sauté until the pine nuts turn golden. Slowly pour the prepared syrup over the mixture and reduce the heat to low. Stir until the liquid is absorbed. Once the liquid is fully absorbed, remove from heat, cover the saucepan with its lid, and let it steep to rest.
About This Recipe
100 grams of semolina contains 369 calories. Its total fat content is 1.1 grams, sodium is 1 milligram, potassium is 186 milligrams, and carbohydrate content is 73 grams.
Semolina flour is high in carbohydrates. A high carbohydrate content means it is a good source of energy. It is especially recommended for children in their developmental years and for those who engage in intense physical activity. Semolina, being a high-fiber food, is also rich in magnesium. Thanks to its protein content, it has a low glycemic index, which means it is digested slowly and raises blood sugar gradually. It also provides a feeling of fullness. Doctors do not generally recommend it for people with diabetes, those on a diet, or those with insulin resistance.
Semolina halva (helva) is a classic of Turkish cuisine. That said, sometimes it's good to break the mold, isn't it? Today's recipe is Orange Semolina Halva. Bon appétit in advance!
