SAEDNEWS: "Omaj halva” is prepared for iftar meals and mourning ceremonies among Turkish-speaking communities and has its own devoted following.
Recipe for Omaj Halva
Omaj is a delicious traditional halva, primarily prepared by the people of Tabriz. It is commonly served during mourning ceremonies and, like saffron halva, is also enjoyed for iftar during Ramadan.
Milk: 1 cup
Sifted wheat flour: 1 cup
Sugar: 1 cup
Water: just under 1 cup
Vegetable oil: ½ cup
Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
Rosewater: ⅓ cup
Saffron, brewed: 1 tablespoon
Step 1:
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. Set aside.
Step 2:
Mix the flour with turmeric and spread it on a tray. Slowly spray milk over the flour, stirring constantly, until the flour forms small clumps or crumbs.
Step 3:
Spread the flour mixture on the tray and let it dry for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Once dry, process the mixture in a food processor until smooth. This processed flour is called Omaj.
Step 4:
Heat the oil in a pot over low heat. Add the Omaj and stir continuously until it changes from white to a light chocolate color.
Step 5:
Add the syrup, saffron, and rosewater. Stir until the halva comes together.
Step 6:
Simmer the halva over low heat for about an hour, stirring every ten minutes to prevent sticking.
Once ready, shape the Omaj halva as desired and garnish with slivered pistachios.
Preparation time: approximately 30 minutes
Cooking and simmering time: about 1 hour 30 minutes
Serves: 8 people
Ideal as a dessert for special occasions or gatherings
