Halwa

In Arabic, Halwa signifies dessert. However, the most well-known Omani sweets are known as Halwa.

It has a thicker, thicker texture than custard. Although the halwa is dark in color, it is not made with chocolate. Sugar, honey, rose water, eggs, Omani spices, and almonds are used to make Omani Halwa. It's typically served with dates and kahwa.

The Omanis serve it on a single large dish with multiple spoons so that visitors and guests may partake in the delicacy.

Ingredients:

1 cup Tapioca flour; 3/4 Cup Water; 2 Cups Sugar; 1/4 teaspoon Red food coloring; 1 pinch of Saffron strands; 1 Tablespoon Ghee; 1 Tablespoon Rosewater; 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 Tablespoon Roasted sesame seeds; 1/4 Cup Cashew nuts; 1/4 Cup Almonds Sliced/Blanched

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix together the tapioca flour and water.

• Add in the food coloring and mix until all is combined, set aside.

• Heat the ghee in a nonstick pan and add in the cashews and almonds. Roast until slightly brown and set aside.

• In a saucepan combine the 2 cups of water and sugar together and bring to a boil until the sugar is totally dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.

• Next heat up the sugar/water mixture over a low flame.
  Add in the tapioca mixture

• Add the nutmeg, cardamom, and saffron into the pot.

• Keep stirring until the halwa starts to pull away from the side of the pan. Keep stirring and when it seems nice and gelatinous, add in the rose water, sesame seeds, and roasted cashews and almonds.

• Turn off the heat and put the halwa in serving bowls and garnish with additional nuts if desired. It can be served either hot or cold.