Halvas

Halvas or Halouvas Simigdalenos (Semolina) is a popular Cypriot sweet especially during the fasting period. There are many ways to prepare a variety of Halouva forms (simigdalenos or sisamenos) however the easiest and fastest is the method made in a pot. The ingredients include semolina, almonds, syrup, cinnamon, cloves and rosewater. The most well-known method is called one, two, three, and four from the analogies of the ingredients according to the order in which they are used:

• 1 part butter (or oil)
• 2 parts of semolina
• 3 parts of sugar
• 4 parts of water  

Firstly the semolina is mixed with the hot butter and then the sugar and water are added into the mixture until it is absorbed. The mixture is then flavoured with cinnamon, cloves and orange peel. As soon as the moisture is completely absorbed, the halvas is ready and raisins can be added according to taste. The sweet is served either warm in a bowl or the most usual way, in a circular jelly mould which is then turned over in a plate and cut into pieces.