halva with walnuts
Traditional sweet treat
Inroduction
About this Recipe
By: Marija
Halva is an ancient dessert with roots in the Middle East and Persia, dating back over 1,000 years.
Over time, it spread across many regions, including the Balkans and the Middle East, where it became a beloved sweet for special occasions.
This flour-based version, made with butter and sugar syrup, is especially popular during Ramadan and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 125g butter
- 120g oil
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 50g crushed walnuts (optional)
- 400g sugar
- 720g hot water
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Syrup
Heat 720g of water in a kettle or pot until boiling.
In a separate bowl or pot, pour the hot water over the sugar and stir until fully dissolved.
Set aside.
Step 2
Toast the Flour
In a large pan, melt butter and add vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the flour and start stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
After about 10 minutes, add the crushed walnuts and continue stirring.
Keep cooking for another 15 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture turns a deep golden brown and thickens.
Step 3
Incorporate the Syrup
Gradually pour the warm sugar syrup into the flour mixture while stirring. Be careful—it will bubble up!
Keep stirring until the mixture thickens further and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
The halva is ready when it becomes smooth and no longer sticks to the bottom.
Step 4
Shape & Serve
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
You can spread it into a dish and cut into pieces or scoop it into small mounds with a spoon.
Serve warm or at room temperature. You can garnish with extra walnuts if desired.
