Oats, almond & apple halwa sweetened only with dates. A healthier take on a conventional Indian dessert. The apples lend a slight tartness that’s really quite delicious.

Recipe

Oats, Almond and Apple Halwa

(Serves 2)

Ingredients

1/2 cup rolled oats, toasted
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
Dash of nutmeg and saffron
2 tbsp ghee, divided
10-12 soft, pitted dates (use more if you like your halwa sweeter)
1/4 cup warm water
4 apples, peeled, cored and cubed (I used McIntosh apples and they added a nice tang)
1 tbsp slivered almonds (optional)

Method

Soak the dates in 1/4 cup warm water for 10 minutes.

In a blender/food processor pulse the toasted oats until finely ground. Transfer them to a bowl and proceed to do the same with the almonds.

Add the almond meal to the oats powder, mix well and set aside.

Add the soaked dates, chopped apples and spices to the blender and purée until smooth.

Melt the ghee in a nonstick pan over medium heat and reserve 2 teaspoons for later.

Add the oats and almond mixture and roast over medium-low heat until it changes color and gets fragrant (break up any large lumps while roasting).

Add the date and apple puree, continue stirring until the liquid evaporates and the mixture leaves the sides of the pan. Stir in the remaining ghee along with the toasted almonds and cook for another 5 minutes.

Serve warm and enjoy!