What is Helva-i Hakani and how is it prepared? A practical Helva-i Hakani recipe
Helva-i Hakani, a staple of Ottoman cuisine, was among the desserts served at the Çankaya Mansion on the evening of October 28, 1923, when the decision to establish the Republic was made. How is Helva-i Hakani prepared? Tips for making Helva-i Hakani at home...
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Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Fatih Sultan Mehmet are among the notable figures who enjoyed Helva-i Hakani, a dessert that continues to be enjoyed by citizens today.
HELVA-İ HAKANİ RECIPE
Helva-i Hakani ingredients
- 75 g flour
- 50 g wheat starch
- 60 g rice flour
- 150 g clotted cream (kaymak)
- 300 ml milk
- 150 g butter
- 125 g almonds
- 300 ml honey
PREPARATION OF HELVA-İ HAKANİ
- After peeling the almonds, set a few aside for garnish and crush the rest in a mortar. Mix the starch and flours in a bowl.
- In a separate container, boil the milk, add the honey, and keep it warm. Melt the butter in a pot and turn off the heat. Once the butter has cooled slightly, add the flour.
- Turn the heat back on and roast the flour by stirring with a wooden spoon. Add the almonds and roast over low heat until the color changes.
- Turn the heat down very low and add the hot milk and honey mixture. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Cover the pot with a paper towel, put the lid on, and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- Cut the clotted cream into small pieces and add it to the halva while it is still warm. Mix and garnish with rose water or cinnamon as desired.