Halva

My mother used to make large trays of delicious halva. حلوا - Halva is made with wheat flour, butter, sugar and rosewater. In Iran, halva is usually made during religious holidays and served after the funeral services. I, on the other hand, think that you don't need a special occasion to make halva. Halva is a very rich and fulfilling dessert. You can make it ahead and freeze the leftovers for later. It keeps well in the freezer.

Persian Halva

Ingredients:

For The Syrup

1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup rosewater
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4  teaspoon powdered saffron dissolved in 2 tablespoons of hot water

For The Halva

2 cups whole wheat flour, sifted
1 cup vegetable oil or unsalted butter 

Garnish:

Slivered almonds
Chopped pistachios
Shredded coconuts

Method:

1. Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, add the cardamom, saffron and the rosewater. Remove from the heat, set aside.
2. Place a heavy-bottom pan over medium-low heat and lightly toast the flour for 8-10 minutes, until you smell the aroma. Stirring frequently.
3. Add the oil and stir continuously for about 10-12 minutes over low heat.
4. While stirring, gradually pour the sugar syrup into the pan, until it is fully absorbed and the halva has thickened. 
5. Remove from the heat and transfer the halva onto a serving platter. With the back of a spoon flatten the halva and garnish with the desired toppings.

Enjoy!