SAHTEIN! Arabic Recipe of the Day

Halawah – Date Dessert

In Oman, halwa, literally meaning sweet, similar to Turkish Delight, is usually bought in large urban centres, ready made in shops. One of the important cottage industries, it is famous as a symbol of traditional Omani hospitality and is served on any special occasions such as religious holidays. This traditional favoured sweet is a symbol of the country and a trade handed down from father to son. Today this Omani renowned sweet has become famous throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

• 1 pound dates, pitted and chopped
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons starch, dissolved in 1/4-cup water
• 1/2 cup slivered and toasted almonds
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons rosewater
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• pinch of saffron
• 1 egg, beaten (optional)

Place dates and water in a saucepan then bring to boil, stirring a number of times. Cook over medium/low heat for 1 minute, stirring often and adding more water if needed. Stir in sugar and cook for a few minutes then stir in the dissolved starch. Cook over low heat until the saucepan content thickens, stirring often. Stir in remaining ingredients and cook for 2 minutes, continually stirring. Allow to cool for a few hours in a refrigerator before serving.