Halva

My mother used to make large trays of delicious halva. حلوا - This traditional Persian sweet is prepared with wheat flour, butter, sugar, and rosewater. In Iran, halva is often made for religious holidays and is customarily served after funeral services. I, however, believe that you don't need a special occasion to enjoy it. Rich and comforting, halva can also be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. 

Persian Halva

Ingredients

For The Syrup

-1 1/2 cups 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 

For Garnish

-Slivered almonds
-Chopped pistachios
-Shredded coconuts

Method

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then add cardamom, saffron, and rosewater. Remove from heat, and set aside.
2. Place a heavy-bottom pan and dry-toast the flour over medium-low heat for 6-8 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. Stirring frequently.
3. Add the oil or butter to the flour. Stir continuously over low heat for 10-12 minutes, until the mixture develops a nutty aroma.   
4. Gradually pour the warm syrup into the flour mixture while stirring constantly, until fully absorbed and the halva thickens into a smooth paste. 
5. Transfer the halva to a serving platter. Flatten and smooth the surface with the back of a spoon. Garnish with slivered almonds, chopped pistachios, and shredded coconuts. 

Enjoy!