Halva's surprising resurgence: A nutrient-rich Middle East taste
It's brittle and so sweet that the sugar almost crunches under your teeth. Years ago, it was extremely popular, but today, it has been replaced by candy bars, wafers, and cookies. For many people, though, it's a sweet memory, reminiscing of the holidays in the Middle East.
Although the exact origin of halva is difficult to determine, most sources point to Iran as its birthplace. The taste of halva quickly won over people worldwide. From Iran, it reached the Middle East and then spread to the Balkans, Mediterranean countries, and Western Asia.
Today, halva is popular around the world and available in many different flavours and textures. You can find it in stores, pastry shops, and even make it at home. There are various flavoured versions: cocoa, vanilla, nuts, or pistachios. This once-forgotten treat from the communist era is not just a sweet dessert, but also a valuable snack rich in nutrients.
Choose halva
Sweet snacks are usually associated with empty calories, but halva breaks away from this pattern. Although it is not a low-calorie snack, it contains many valuable nutrients. It is a source of phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, calcium, and iron, which supports the proper functioning of the body and helps improve the quality of skin, hair, and nails. Halva is also a source of fibre, which supports proper intestinal function.
Halva made from sunflower seeds or sesame is rich in vitamin E, a strong antioxidant that slows down the aging process of the body. Moreover, the addition of healthy omega-6 fats, especially present in sesame halva, supports the work of our heart and circulatory system, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Everything in moderation
Halva can be a healthy addition to the diet, but it's important to maintain moderation. Though it contains many healthy ingredients, its calories might tempt us into eating the whole package. To enjoy its taste without guilt, it's best to savour it in small bites from time to time.
