Description
Turkish Tahini Helva is a rich, sweet sesame-based dessert made by cooking tahini with sugar and water, sometimes garnished with pistachios. This smooth, fudge-like treat offers a nutty flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for serving as a unique dessert or a sweet snack with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- Cooking spray, as needed
- 16 ounces tahini or sesame paste (about 1 3/4 cups)
- 1 pound sugar (about 2 1/4 cups)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Lightly coat a rectangular or square pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set aside for later.
- Mix Sugar and Water: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 pound of sugar with 1/2 cup of water. Stir gently and bring to a boil until the sugar fully dissolves, creating a clear syrup. Avoid stirring once it boils to prevent crystallization.
- Add Tahini: Lower the heat and gradually add the tahini (or sesame paste) to the syrup, stirring continuously. Keep mixing until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, forming a dense, sticky dough-like consistency.
- Incorporate Pistachios: If using, fold the shelled pistachios into the tahini mixture evenly for added texture and flavor.
- Transfer to Pan: Quickly transfer the helva mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and press down firmly to compact the mixture.
- Cool and Set: Allow the helva to cool at room temperature to set completely. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on the environment. Do not refrigerate as it can alter the texture.
- Serve: Once set, cut the helva into desired pieces and serve as a sweet treat alongside tea or coffee.
Notes
- Using high-quality tahini will result in a richer flavor for the helva.
- Pistachios are optional but add a traditional crunch and color contrast.
- Do not overcook the sugar syrup as it can harden the final texture overly.
- Letting the helva set at room temperature ensures the best texture; refrigeration can make it too firm and crumbly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Keywords: Turkish helva, tahini dessert, sesame halva, pistachio dessert, traditional Turkish sweet