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Halva — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Halva photo

Listonic Team

September 4, 2024

Halva is a dense, sweet confection typically made from sesame paste or other nut butters and sugar. Explore the different varieties of halva found around the world, from the Middle Eastern tahini-based to the grainy, semolina type popular in Eastern Europe and India, along with culinary uses and storage tips.
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Nutrition facts

Check the detailed nutritional values of halva, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 516 kcal

Nutrition per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs54 g19.64%
Fiber3 g10.71%
Sugars47 g94%
Glycemic Index70 -
Protein13 g26%
Sodium50 mg2.17%
Total Fat31 g39.74%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes halva stand out:

13 g

🧀 Good Protein Content

Did you know?

😋
Halva is a dense, sweet confection with variations found in the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean.
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Store halva in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can be kept for up to six months. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life, but it may affect the texture.

Health benefits

Learn how halva can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet that promotes well-being.
  • Rich in healthy fats from sesame seeds (tahini), which provide energy and support heart health.
  • Contains antioxidants, such as sesamin and sesamol, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
  • Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which support overall health and well-being.
  • High in protein, making it a nutritious snack option for muscle growth and repair.

Health risks

Be aware of the potential health risks and issues related to halva.
  • High sugar content which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed frequently.
  • High fat content particularly in varieties made with sesame paste (tahini), which can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain if consumed in large amounts.
  • High calorie content which can lead to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions.
  • Potential for allergic reactions particularly in individuals allergic to sesame seeds or nuts, which are common ingredients in halva.
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How to choose halva

Halva should have a crumbly yet moist texture, often speckled with nuts or seeds. It comes in light beige or brown colors, depending on the type. The texture should be uniformly soft without being overly sticky.

Do not purchase halva that is too hard or dry, as it indicates it's been stored improperly. Halva should be sweet with a slightly nutty flavor, making it a delicious treat or dessert accompaniment.

How to choose halva
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How to store halva

Halva should be stored in a cool, dry place. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its texture and flavor. Properly stored, halva can last for several months.

Exposure to moisture can cause halva to spoil and lose its quality. It's important to keep it away from direct sunlight and humidity. Maintaining a consistent, cool environment helps preserve its rich, nutty flavor and texture.

✅ Extra Tip

Store halva in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can be kept for up to six months. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life, but it may affect the texture.

How long does it last?

Halva can last for 6-12 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For longer storage, halva can be refrigerated, where it can last up to 1 year.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover halva can be used in a variety of sweet and indulgent ways. Crumble it and sprinkle over ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal for a nutty, sweet flavor, or use it as a filling for pastries or cookies. Halva is also great when mixed into baked goods, adding a unique texture and flavor to cakes or brownies.

Use halva as a topping for pancakes or waffles, where its richness complements the sweetness of the dish. If you have a lot of halva, consider making a batch of halva truffles by rolling pieces of halva into balls and dipping them in chocolate. Halva can also be blended into a spread for toast or crackers, or crumbled and mixed into granola or cereal bars. For a quick snack, enjoy halva on its own, paired with fresh fruit, or mixed into a smoothie for added sweetness and flavor.

👨‍⚕️️  Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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