Dive into the delectable world of Jordan Halva, a luscious and dense confectionery delight. Made from rich sesame paste or flour, this sweet treat offers a harmonious blend of flavors, often heightened with the addition of nuts or aromatic spices. Explore the artistry behind its creation as we unravel the intricate process of crafting this beloved Jordanian delicacy. Whether indulging in its luxurious texture or savoring the nuanced notes of its ingredients, Jordan Halva promises a sensory journey like no other.

Ingredients:

 - 1 cup tahini (sesame paste)

 - 1 cup granulated sugar

 - 1 cup water

 - 1 cup semolina flour

 - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)

 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

 - 1/4 cup melted butter or ghee (clarified butter)

 - Additional nuts and spices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, remove the syrup from heat and set aside.

2- In a separate large skillet or frying pan, heat the semolina flour over medium heat. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Once toasted, transfer the semolina to a bowl and set aside.

3- In the same skillet, add the tahini and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes slightly thicker.

4- Gradually pour the sugar syrup into the tahini while stirring continuously. Be careful as the mixture may bubble up. Stir until well combined and smooth.

5- Reduce the heat to low, then add the toasted semolina, chopped nuts, and optional spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture thickens.

6- Gradually pour in the melted butter or ghee, stirring continuously, until fully incorporated.

7- Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes or until it thickens further and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

8- Remove the pan from the heat and let the halva mixture cool slightly.

9- While still warm, transfer the halva mixture into a greased mold or baking dish, pressing it down firmly to pack it evenly.

10- Allow the halva to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours or overnight until set.

11- Once set, carefully unmold the halva onto a serving platter and garnish with additional nuts and spices if desired.

12- Slice the halva into squares or diamonds and serve as a delightful sweet treat.

Enjoy your homemade Jordan Halva!

Nutritional Values :

Here’s the nutritional breakdown and benefits for the ingredients in your dessert recipe:

Kadaifi or Shredded Phyllo Dough (450g):

  - Calories: Approximately 1700

  - Fat: 90 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 210 grams

  - Protein: 30 grams

Benefits: Provides a crispy and crunchy texture. High in carbohydrates, contributing to energy levels.

Unsalted Butter (225g, melted):

  - Calories: Approximately 1620

  - Fat: 180 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 1 gram

Benefits: Adds richness and flavor. Provides healthy fats but should be used in moderation due to high calorie and fat content.

Unsalted Cheese (250g, shredded):

  - Calories: Approximately 800

  - Fat: 60 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 2 grams

  - Protein: 50 grams

Benefits: Rich in protein and calcium. Supports bone health and adds creaminess.

Ricotta Cheese or Cream Cheese (250g):

Ricotta Cheese: 

   - Calories: Approximately 300

   - Fat: 22 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 8 grams

   - Protein: 15 grams

Cream Cheese: 

   - Calories: Approximately 900

   - Fat: 90 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 6 grams

   - Protein: 5 grams

Benefits: Adds creaminess and richness. Ricotta provides protein and calcium, while cream cheese is higher in fat and calories.

Simple Syrup (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 775

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 200 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds sweetness and helps in achieving the sticky texture of Kanafeh. High in sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

Crushed Pistachios or Almonds (for garnish, optional):

Pistachios (100g): 

   - Calories: Approximately 560

   - Fat: 45 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 28 grams

   - Protein: 20 grams

Almonds (100g): 

   - Calories: Approximately 575

   - Fat: 50 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 22 grams

   - Protein: 21 grams

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. Adds a crunchy texture and enhances flavor.

For the Simple Syrup:

Water (1 cup):

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Used as a base for the syrup, does not contribute calories or nutrients.

Granulated Sugar (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 775

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 200 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds sweetness but is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 4

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds a tangy flavor and vitamin C, supports immune function.

Rose Water (1 teaspoon, optional):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds aromatic flavor and may have antioxidant properties.

For the Eggplant Dish:

Eggplants (2 large):

  - Calories: Approximately 160

  - Fat: 0.8 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 40 grams

  - Protein: 4 grams

Benefits: Low in calories and rich in dietary fiber. Provides antioxidants such as nasunin, which supports heart health and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Tahini (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 600

  - Fat: 54 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

  - Protein: 17 grams

Benefits: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Supports bone health and provides a creamy texture.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Approximately 10

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 2 grams

  - Protein: 0.5 grams

Benefits: Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, boosts the immune system, and supports cardiovascular health.

Lemon Juice (Juice of 1 lemon):

  - Calories: Approximately 12

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds vitamin C and a tangy flavor, supports immune function and aids in digestion.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 240

  - Fat: 28 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Supports heart health and adds richness.

Salt (to taste):

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Salt helps maintain fluid balance, but should be used in moderation.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 5 (for 2 tablespoons)

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Protein: 0.5 grams

Benefits: Provides vitamins A, C, and K. Adds freshness and supports overall health.

Pomegranate Seeds (for garnish, optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 83 (for 1/4 cup)

  - Fat: 1 gram

  - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

  - Protein: 1 gram

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K. Supports heart health and adds a burst of color and tangy flavor.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands, variations in ingredients, and serving sizes. Additionally, the nutritional information provided is based on standard ingredients and does not include any additional garnishes or variations.