Halva is a traditional candy that’s found everywhere in Greece and the middle east. It is frequently served during Lent because it’s perfect for fasting since it is dairy-free and egg-free. I have so many memories of eating this with my family when I was a little girl, I would always try to sneak extra bites!
One of the best things about Halva, in my opinion, is that it can be made in one bowl, no baking required. Now that my kids are older, I often put them in charge of making the halva. I also let them decided what flavors they’d like to add to it. Not surprisingly, the answer is usually chocolate chips! In the past I’ve also added raisins, rosewater, and other flavors. I can’t add nuts because my children are allergic, but Halva tastes very good with pistachios and/or almonds.
Once the batter is prepared simply press it into a loaf pan, or any pan you prefer, and allow it to harden. This is the only part that really requires planning – you can’t really eat the halva the minute you make it, I typically find that it needs a few hours to truly harden nicely. After that, simply cut and serve your halva and allow everyone to enjoy their Lenten treat.
There are many, many ways to make halva and I’ll share more on future shows. If you have any requests for me to make halva you’ve enjoyed, please let me know. It’s endlessly adaptable and it’s not uncommon for people to have eaten it at sweet shops, restaurants, and homes, all prepared completely differently. There really is no wrong way to do it! I hope you enjoy this recipe as you prepare for Lent, it is a great bite that always pleases both the kids and adults. Enjoy!
Chocolate Chip Halva
Halva is a traditional candy served during Lent. It’s a tasty treat that almost every Greek has enjoyed since childhood! I like to make it for my family and play with the flavors a little bit. For this version I added some mini chocolate chips to add an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
2 cups tahini
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix together the tahini, confectioners' sugar, honey, and salt until well combined.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Press the mixture into a loaf pan lined with plastic wrap and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Once the halva has hardened, remove it from the pan and slice it into pieces. Serve and enjoy!
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.
Comments