Halva is a tahina -based dessert, the cream obtained by grinding white, hulled and toasted sesame seeds.
For the preparation of Halva, sugar is added to the tahini for the "classic" taste, but it is also found combined with many other flavours: there is Halva with pistachio, almond, hazelnut, but it is also found with the addition of coffee, chocolate and in infinite other variations.
The best halva, when processed well, is crumbly and melts in your mouth.
But the real magic lies in the process and technique; it is this that creates its unique texture.
In many countries you have to be an apprentice to become a halva master! Often passed down from generation to generation, it's a skill that requires dedication and strong shoulders. It is a long and fascinating process.
It can be consumed at any time of the day, alone or accompanied with a cup of tea or coffee. The taste tends to be sweet, with a nutty note. It can be placed in the same category as peanut butter.
Wanting to find a land that Halva belongs to is not easy, because it belongs above all to the Mediterranean.
In fact, we find it present, albeit in different forms, in different countries bordering the mare nostrum, Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Israel…
The first known written recipe appears to date from the early 13th century.
Halva, Helva, Halwa or Halvah. One thing is for sure, the word Halva has come a long way. For example, it has also been referred to as Halava in Sanskrit, Halawa in Egypt, Halvas in Greece, Halvah in Hebrew, Hilwa or Halawi in Arabic, Helva in Turkey.
Over time it has acquired countless fans, today it can be found on the shelves of shops in London, Paris and New York, or on the menus of the best restaurants.
But why has this dessert managed to conquer so many countries over the centuries?
It is a natural and nutritious dessert, rich and substantial, of 100% vegetable origin, gluten-free and lactose-free. It is also a source of fibre.
Halva is perfect for all those who want to indulge in a moment of pleasure, but with particular attention to the quality and naturalness of the ingredients.
