Persian Halva

Halva is a favorite dessert throughout the Middle East. Many varieties are made with tahini or semolina flour. This Persian halva recipe uses a simple mixture of flour, butter, and sugar with the sweet perfume of rosewater. Cut into wedges and serve with tea or coffee.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Calories: 386 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup rose water
• 3 saffron threads

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Bring sugar and water to a boil in a saucepan; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Stir rosewater and saffron into the sugar mixture; cover the saucepan and remove from the heat.

Step 3

Melt butter in a large saucepan over low heat; stir flour into melted butter until mixture is a smooth paste. Continue to cook, stirring often, until paste turns golden, 5 to 10 more minutes.

Step 4

Slowly whisk sugar mixture into paste until smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 5

Spread halva evenly onto a plate or platter. Make a pattern on the top of halva using the back of a spoon or a knife. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set, at least 1 hour.