Xalwo (Somali Cardamom Halwa)
In short: A glossy, chewy halwa of sugar, cornstarch and ghee scented with cardamom and nutmeg, set in a tray and cut into squares. It takes about 55 min in total and makes 12 servings.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 45 min
- Resting
- 2 h
- Total
- 55 min
- Servings
- 12
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Calories
- 290 kcal
Xalwo is Somalia's celebration sweet: a glossy, chewy halwa made from sugar, cornstarch and ghee, scented with cardamom and nutmeg. It is cooked for weddings, Eid and visits, cut into squares and served with strong spiced tea or coffee. The mixture needs a lot of stirring, about half an hour, until it turns translucent and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Instructions
- Grease a 20 cm (8 inch) square tray with ghee. Whisk the cornstarch with 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) of cold water until smooth.
- Dissolve the sugar in the remaining 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) of water in a large nonstick pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, then pour in the cornstarch mixture slowly, whisking constantly so no lumps form.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring all the time with a wooden spoon, until the mixture is thick and turns translucent.
- Add the ghee a spoonful at a time, stirring well after each addition. Keep stirring for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the halwa is glossy and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
- Stir in the cardamom, nutmeg and nuts. Pour it into the tray and smooth the top with a wet spatula.
- Cool for at least 2 hours until set, then cut into squares.
Tips
- Keep stirring and keep the heat low. Halwa scorches easily, and a nonstick pot makes the job much easier.
- Vegetable oil can replace the ghee for a dairy-free halwa. The flavor is lighter, but the texture is the same.
Questions and answers
Why is my xalwo not setting?
It probably needs more cooking. Keep stirring until it turns translucent and pulls away from the pot. It also firms up considerably as it cools.
How long does xalwo keep?
Wrapped well and kept at room temperature it stays fresh for up to 5 days, or 2 weeks in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Can I add food coloring or other flavors?
Yes. Many cooks tint it with a drop of food coloring or add rose water or vanilla. Stir them in with the spices at the end.
How long does it take to make Xalwo (Somali Cardamom Halwa)?
About 55 min in total: 10 min of preparation and 45 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Xalwo (Somali Cardamom Halwa)?
About 290 kcal per serving, with 1 g of protein, 45 g of carbohydrates and 12 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 290 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 33 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
