Persian halvah is not like the regular halvah you are familiar with. The word halvah refers to several dense and sweet desserts made with nuts or flour. In contrast to the more popular Israeli halvah made from sesame paste, halvah in Iran is flour-based with a hint of rose water. I actually think Persian halvah is much better; it has a soft, play-dough consistency that is very agreeable to the palate. The taste is heavenly and very exotic. Persian halvah is intertwined in many parts of the life of Persian Jews. It is the dish of choice with which to break fasts and is also one of the essential foods included in mishloach manos. It is very easy to make and even easier to eat!
This article appeared in Kosher Inspired, Issue 3, March 2011.