Persian Halva
Indulge in the rich and aromatic world of Persian Halva, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that delights the senses with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. This comforting sweet treat is made by toasting all-purpose flour in unsalted butter until golden brown, then infusing it with a luxurious syrup of saffron, rosewater, and cardamom for an irresistibly fragrant finish. Garnished with vibrant pistachios, Persian Halva boasts a warm, nutty aroma and silky smooth texture that’s perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes and customizable in its presentation, this dessert pairs beautifully with tea and makes for an elegant centerpiece at cultural celebrations or family gatherings. Experience the magic of Persian cuisine with this easy and authentic halva recipe!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
- 1 cup Sugar
- 0.75 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Rosewater
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground cardamom
- 0.25 teaspoon Saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons Pistachios (for garnish)
Instructions
In a small bowl, crush the saffron threads using the back of a spoon and dissolve them in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Set aside to bloom.
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and 3/4 cup of water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, then add the saffron mixture, rosewater, and ground cardamom. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and set the syrup aside.
In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir continuously using a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure the mixture doesn't burn.
Toast the flour and butter mixture over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until it turns into a golden-brown color and emits a nutty aroma.
Once the mixture is properly toasted, gradually pour the prepared syrup into the pan while stirring constantly. Be cautious, as the mixture may splatter slightly.
Continue stirring over low heat until the halva thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, forming a smooth and cohesive mass.
Remove from heat and transfer the halva onto a serving plate. Spread it evenly and use the back of a spoon to smooth the top into your desired shape.
Garnish with chopped pistachios and serve warm or at room temperature. You may also shape the halva into small pieces or decorative patterns if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1747 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.8 g | 74% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.1 g | 146% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 18 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 296.5 g | 108% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 201.1 g | ||
| Protein | 16.6 g | 33% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 64 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 6.5 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 334 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
