Halva

Halva is a traditional sweet made primarily from sesame (tahini) or cereal flour, combined with sugar or honey. Its texture can range from granular and dry to smooth and creamy, depending on the recipe and the region where it is prepared. This dessert is very popular in various Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and parts of Asian cultures, with origins dating back thousands of years.

Halva is known for its sweet flavor and characteristic aroma of toasted sesame seeds or nuts that are often added, such as walnuts or pistachios. In cooking, it is used both as a dessert to be eaten on its own and in the preparation of other sweet dishes or accompaniments.

From a nutritional standpoint, halva is a good source of energy due to its content of healthy fats from sesame, in addition to providing plant-based proteins, calcium, and iron. However, given its high sugar and fat content, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

In Latin America, although the term halva is not so commonly used, it can be found under names such as jalva or simply referred to as sesame sweet.

Its versatility and recognizable flavor make it a valuable ingredient for both traditional and contemporary dessert recipes.