Sooji halwa is a simple recipe for a sweet pudding made with semolina, sugar, water, and a hint of cardamom.
We South Asians definitely love our sweets and desserts. There is a vast variety of sweets for every occasion, celebration or to enjoy just because you feel like it. Whether you’re a fan of mithai (fudge style bite-sized desserts) or more traditional desserts like Ras Malai, or Shahi Tukra, there is a South-Asian dessert for you!
This Sooji Halwa is a basic, traditional yet simple dessert that you enjoy any time of day! This sooji halwa is an integral part of the indulgent Pakistani breakfast of Halwa Puri Cholay. But it can also be enjoyed on its own for a simple dessert.
Looking for more quick Pakistani or Indian desserts? Here are some of our favorites:
Ingredients for Sooji Halwa
- Semolina – or suji – is roasted as the base of this pudding
- Ghee / Butter – The semolina is roasted in ghee or oil. Ghee is traditionally used but a little butter can be used instead as well.
- Sugar – the sugar adds sweetness, but you can adjust the amount you add based on your personal preference.
- Green Cardamom Powder – this spice has subtle floral notes, perfect for using cardamom in desserts.
- Almonds – slivered almonds can be added as an optional garnish.
How to make Sooji Halwa Recipe?
This sooji halwa is really easy to make and takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- In a pot add butter/ ghee along with the semolina. Sauté the semolina (sooji) for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sugar, water, and cardamom powder and mix together. Add orange food color, if using.
- Mix well, and cook covered for 10 – 15 minutes, until the water is absorbed completely.
- Garnish with slivered almonds, if using.
Tips
- This pudding is sweet, but you can adjust the sugar to your liking. Start with 1/2 cup of sugar for the recipe below, and increase the amount if you prefer a sweeter pudding
- The longer the semolina/suji is roasted, the less sticky the pudding. Adjust to your preference.
If you give this Sooji Halwa recipe a try, we’d love to see them! Tag us on Instagram @thespicemess
Sooji Halwa
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sooji / semolina
- 2 tablespoons Butter or ghee
- ½-¾ cup Sugar
- 1-2 drops orange food color optional
- 1-½ cups Water
- ½-1 teaspoon Green Cardamom powder
- slivered almonds optional for garnish
Instructions
- In a pot add butter/ ghee along with the semolina. Sauté the semolina (sooji) for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sugar, water, and cardamom powder and mix together. Add orange food color, if using.
- Mix well, and cook covered for 10 – 15 minutes, until the water is absorbed completely.
- Garnish with slivered almonds, if using.