Discover how to make Xalwo (Halva), a delicious sweet treat made with sugar, cornstarch, and butter, and flavored with aromatic cardamom and saffron. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting dessert, this recipe guides you through creating a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that's both rich and fragrant.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup cornstarch

- 1/2 cup butter

- 2 cups water

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

- A few saffron threads

- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Saffron: In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in a couple of tablespoons of warm water and set aside.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.

Heat Ingredients: Add the water to the dry mixture and stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture starts to thicken. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Butter and Flavorings: Once the mixture is thick, add the butter, ground cardamom, and saffron water. Continue to stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.

Cook to Desired Consistency: Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches a pudding-like consistency and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 10-15 minutes.

Pour and Set: Transfer the mixture to a greased dish or tray and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for a few hours, or until set.

Garnish and Serve: Once set, cut into squares or desired shapes. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired. Enjoy!

This Xalwo (Halva) recipe makes a delightful treat for any occasion and is sure to impress with its rich flavors and smooth texture.

Nutritional values

Sugar (1 cup)

 - Calories: About 387 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 100 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

 - Sugar provides energy as a quick source of carbohydrates. However, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive calorie intake and potential health issues like weight gain and diabetes.

Cornstarch (1/2 cup)

 - Calories: About 381 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 91 grams

 - Protein: 0.3 grams

 - Fat: 0.1 grams

Benefits:

 - Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent in cooking and baking. It is a source of carbohydrates but lacks significant vitamins or minerals.

Butter (1/2 cup)

 - Calories: About 717 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams

 - Protein: 0.9 grams

 - Fat: 81 grams

Benefits:

 - Butter adds flavor and richness to dishes. It contains essential fatty acids and vitamins A, D, E, and K. However, due to its high fat content, it should be used in moderation to manage calorie intake and heart health.

Water (2 cups)

 - Water has no calories, carbohydrates, protein, or fat.

Benefits:

 - Water is essential for hydration, digestion, and overall bodily functions. It is vital for maintaining health and supporting metabolic processes.

Ground Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: About 311 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 68 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams

 - Fat: 6.7 grams

Benefits:

 - Cardamom adds a unique, aromatic flavor to dishes. It has antioxidant properties and may aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and support oral health.

Saffron Threads (A few)

 - Calories: About 310 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 65 grams

 - Protein: 11 grams

 - Fat: 5 grams

Benefits:

 - Saffron is known for its distinct flavor and vibrant color. It has antioxidant properties and may improve mood, enhance memory, and support overall well-being.

Chopped Nuts (1/4 cup, optional)

 - Calories: About 600 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

 - Protein: 20 grams

 - Fat: 50 grams

Benefits:

 - Nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. They are good for heart health, providing antioxidants and essential nutrients. Nuts should be used in moderation due to their high calorie content.

Combining these ingredients will give you a rich, flavorful dish with sweetness from sugar, a smooth texture from cornstarch, richness from butter, and aromatic notes from cardamom and saffron. The optional nuts can add crunch and additional nutrients to the final dish.