16 Greek Halva Recipe With Farina You Must Try Them!
Published on: Apr 2, 2024
Greek halva is a beloved dessert in the Mediterranean region, known for its rich and nutty flavors. This sweet treat is made with farina, a type of fine semolina flour, and is often enjoyed during religious holidays and special occasions. While there are many variations of halva, the traditional Greek recipe with farina is a must-try for any dessert lover. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of this delectable dish, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Heavy Cream, Sugar, Farina, Coarse Salt
Add a unique twist to your summer dessert with this creamy and rich polenta ice cream recipe. Made from a combination of milk, cream, and *cornmeal*, this frozen treat is a must-try for all ice cream lovers. The addition of *maple syrup* adds a touch of sweetness, while the *vanilla extract* adds a hint of warmth. Serve it in a cone or a bowl, either way, this polenta ice cream will be a hit at your next BBQ or picnic.
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Greek Custard Pie (Galaktoboureko)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Farina, Eggs, Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Butter
Indulge in a taste of Greece with this traditional custard pie recipe. Made with a flaky *phyllo dough* crust and a creamy *semolina* custard filling, this dessert is a crowd favorite. The *orange blossom water* and *lemon zest* add a burst of flavor and perfectly balance out the sweetness. Top it off with a sprinkle of *cinnamon* for a truly authentic Greek experience.
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Nonna’s Breakfast and Dessert Farina Cake
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Sugar, Unsalted Butter, Farina, Whole Milk
This simple and delicious farina cake recipe has been passed down through generations in many Italian families. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including *farina* and *butter*, this cake is a staple for both breakfast and dessert. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts to make it your own. Serve it warm with a dollop of *whipped cream* for a comforting and satisfying treat.
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German Poppy Seed Cake - Mohnkuchen Mit Eierdecke
Main Ingredients: Crust, Butter, Flour, Sugar, Zest, Egg Yolks, Poppy
This moist and flavorful German poppy seed cake is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of *poppy seeds* and *almonds* gives this cake a unique texture and taste. The *lemon juice* and *powdered sugar* glaze adds a tangy and sweet touch that will have you going back for seconds. Enjoy a slice of this traditional German cake with a cup of coffee for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
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Chickpea Fries
Main Ingredients: Farina, Sea Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika, Cayenne
Get your snack on with these crispy and flavorful chickpea fries. Made with *chickpea flour* and a blend of herbs and spices, these fries are a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. Dip them in your favorite sauce, like *garlic aioli* or *ranch*, for a delicious and satisfying treat. You can also add them to a salad or wrap for some added crunch and protein.
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Puerto Rican Crema De Farina (Cream of Wheat)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Water, Cinnamon Sticks, Star Anise, Cloves
This creamy and comforting Puerto Rican breakfast dish is a staple in many households. Made with *farina* and *milk*, this dish is similar to oatmeal but with a smoother and thicker consistency. The addition of *cinnamon* and *vanilla extract* adds a touch of warmth and sweetness. Top it off with a sprinkle of *nutmeg* for a flavorful and satisfying breakfast.
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Basbousa ( Semolina Cake )
Main Ingredients: Farina, Ghee, Honey, Sugar, Plain Yogurt, Baking
This Middle Eastern dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Made with *semolina* and *coconut*, this cake is soaked in a sweet syrup and topped with *pistachios*. The *rose water* and *orange blossom water* add a unique and fragrant flavor that will transport you to the streets of the Middle East. Enjoy a slice of basbousa with a cup of tea for the perfect after-dinner treat.
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Ma’moul Cookies
Main Ingredients: Farina, Semolina, Pitted Dates, Butter, Milk, Sugar
These traditional Middle Eastern cookies are a must-try for any cookie lover. Made with a rich and buttery dough, these cookies are filled with *dates* or *walnuts* and dusted with *powdered sugar*. The *orange blossom water* and *rose water* add a delicious and unique flavor that will have you reaching for one more cookie. Serve them with a cup of *mint tea* for the ultimate indulgence.
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Easy Creamy Breakfast – Chocolate Farina
Main Ingredients: Chocolate, Milk, Farina, Butter
Start your day off right with this simple and delicious chocolate farina breakfast recipe. Made with just a few ingredients, including *farina* and *cocoa powder*, this dish is a healthier twist on traditional chocolate porridge. The addition of *honey* and *almond milk* adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess. Top it off with your favorite fruits or nuts for some added flavor and texture.
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Semolina Dumpling Soup (Griessnockerlsuppe)
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Eggs, Farina, Fine Salt, Ground
This traditional Austrian soup is perfect for a cold and rainy day. Made with a rich and flavorful broth and *semolina* dumplings, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. The *chicken broth* and *parsley* add a depth of flavor, while the *lemon juice* adds a tangy touch. Serve this soup as a starter or as a main dish with some crusty bread for a complete and delicious meal.
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The Hirshon Lebanese Pistachio Maamoul Cookies – معمول
Main Ingredients: Farina, Coarse Semolina, All Purpose Flour, Canola Oil
These Lebanese cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves a good shortbread cookie. Made with *semolina* and *butter*, these cookies are filled with a *pistachio* and *rose water* filling. The addition of *mahlab* adds a unique and fragrant flavor that will have you craving more. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of *Arabic coffee* for the perfect afternoon snack.
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Knafeh Jibneh with Orange Blossom Syrup
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Lemon Juice, Orange Blossom Water, Dough
This Middle Eastern dessert is a beautiful and delicious combination of *phyllo dough*, *mozzarella cheese*, and a sweet *orange blossom syrup*. The *semolina* and *butter* used in the dough gives it a flaky and buttery texture, while the *orange blossom water* adds a delicate and floral flavor. Top it off with some *pistachios* for a crunchy and nutty finish.
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Fig Cake with Agave Syrup
Main Ingredients: Farina, Potato Starch, Agave Syrup, Vegetable Oil, Soy
Indulge in the sweet and rich flavors of this fig cake with agave syrup. Made with *farina* and *almond flour*, this cake is both gluten-free and delicious. The addition of *figs* and *agave syrup* adds a natural sweetness and a unique flavor. Serve this cake as a dessert or as a decadent breakfast option.
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Basbousa ( Semolina Cake )
Main Ingredients: Farina, Sugar, Coconut, Baking Powder, Ghee, Plain
This Middle Eastern dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Made with *semolina* and *coconut*, this cake is soaked in a sweet syrup and topped with *pistachios*. The *rose water* and *orange blossom water* add a unique and fragrant flavor that will transport you to the streets of the Middle East. Enjoy a slice of basbousa with a cup of tea for the perfect after-dinner treat.
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Tagliatelle with King Crab, Grilled Murcott...
Main Ingredients: Farina, Kosher Salt, Virgin Olive Oil, Dry White Wine
Get ready to impress your dinner guests with this luxurious and flavorful dish. Made with *tagliatelle pasta* and *king crab*, this dish is full of rich and delicious flavors. The addition of *grilled murcott* adds a refreshing and tangy touch, while the *lemon zest* adds a bright and citrusy flavor. Serve this dish with a glass of white wine for a truly decadent meal.
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Whipped Cranberry Porridge
Main Ingredients: Water, Fresh Cranberries, Fine Sea Salt, Granulated
Upgrade your morning oatmeal with this delicious and nutritious whipped cranberry porridge. Made with *farina* and *oat milk*, this porridge is not only creamy and satisfying, but it's also dairy-free. The addition of *cranberries* adds a tart and refreshing flavor, while the *cinnamon* and *vanilla extract* add a touch of warmth. Top it off with your favorite nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
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CHOCOLATE SOUFFLE WITH BANANA
Main Ingredients: Dark Chocolate, Eggs, Brown Sugar, Butter, Flour
Impress your dinner guests with this decadent and impressive chocolate souffle with banana. Made with a rich and gooey *chocolate* and *banana* mixture, this souffle is perfect for any special occasion. The *cornmeal* adds a unique and unexpected texture, while the *cinnamon* adds a hint of warmth. Serve this souffle with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly heavenly experience.
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Maamoul Bi Fistok (Pistachio Maamoul)
Main Ingredients: Farina, Coarse Semolina, All Purpose Flour, Mahlab
This traditional Middle Eastern cookie is a must-try for anyone with a love for pistachios. Made with a rich and buttery dough and filled with a *pistachio* and *rose water* mixture, these cookies are a true delicacy. The *mahlab* adds a unique and fragrant flavor that will have you coming back for more. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of *Arabic coffee* or *Turkish tea* for the ultimate indulgence.
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Peanut Butter Kufteh
Main Ingredients: Chunky Peanut Butter, Chopped Onion, Dried Mint, Dried
Take your love for peanut butter to the next level with this delicious and unique peanut butter kufteh recipe. Made with a combination of *farina*, *ground beef*, and *peanut butter*, these meatballs are both savory and sweet. The *garlic* and *onion* add a depth of flavor, while the *parsley* adds a touch of freshness. Serve these meatballs with a side of *tahini sauce* for a truly mouthwatering meal.
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Southern-Style German Potato Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Butter, White Breadcrumbs, Bread, Potatoes, All Purpose
These soft and flavorful potato dumplings are a staple in many Southern German households. Made with a combination of *potatoes* and *semolina*, these dumplings are a perfect side dish to any hearty meal. The addition of *bacon* and *onion* adds a savory and smoky flavor, while the *parsley* adds a touch of freshness. Serve them with a rich and flavorful *gravy* for a truly authentic experience.
History and Origins of Greek Halva with Farina
The Beginnings of Halva
The origins of halva can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire, where it was known as "ἀλείρα" (aleira) and was often served during religious ceremonies. The dish eventually spread to other parts of the Mediterranean, including Greece, where it became a staple dessert in many households. The word "halva" is derived from the Arabic word "ḥalwā", meaning "sweet confection".
The Influence of Farina in Greek Halva
Farina, also known as semolina flour, is a key ingredient in traditional Greek halva. This type of flour is made from durum wheat and has a coarse texture, making it perfect for desserts like halva. It is also rich in protein and nutrients, making it a healthier alternative to other types of flour. The addition of farina gives Greek halva its distinct texture and nutty flavor.
How to Make Greek Halva with Farina
Ingredients:
1 cup farina
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil on medium heat.
Add the farina and stir constantly until it turns golden brown.
Add the sugar, water, and optional spices, and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chopped nuts and continue to stir until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
Pour the halva into a greased dish and let it cool for 15-20 minutes.
Cut into slices and serve warm or at room temperature.
Variations:
While the traditional Greek halva recipe with farina is delicious on its own, you can also add your own twist to it by incorporating different ingredients. Some popular variations include adding dried fruits, such as raisins or apricots, or using different types of nuts, such as pistachios or hazelnuts. You can also experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or nutmeg, to add more depth of flavor to your halva.
In Conclusion
Greek halva with farina is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time. Its rich history and delicious flavors are a testament to the enduring popularity of this traditional dish. With this recipe, you can easily recreate the taste of Greece in your own kitchen and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. So why not give it a try and indulge in a taste of the Mediterranean?
