Halva is a sweet treat enjoyed by people from around the world. It is made from a variety of ingredients, including sesame seeds, sugar, and honey. One of the key ingredients in halva is tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds.
Tahini is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. In this article, we will explore the health benefits of tahini and share a recipe for a healthy halva made with this superfood ingredient.
What is Tahini?
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It is a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes, including hummus, baba ghanoush, and halva.
Tahini has a creamy texture and a nutty, slightly bitter flavor, which makes it a great addition to both sweet and savory dishes.
Health Benefits of Tahini
Tahini is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and well-being. Here are some of the health benefits of tahini:.
1. High in Nutrients
Tahini is rich in nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6, as well as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
2. Helps with Digestion
Tahini is a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health. It can help regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and promote healthy digestion.
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3. Boosts Energy
Tahini is a great source of energy due to its high nutrient density and healthy fat content. It can help provide sustained energy throughout the day and prevent energy crashes.
4. Supports Bone Health
Tahini is rich in calcium, which is important for maintaining healthy bones. It can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
5. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
Tahini has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. It can help regulate blood sugar, making it a good choice for people with diabetes or those looking to control their blood sugar levels.
Healthy Halva Recipe
Now that we know about the health benefits of tahini, let’s delve into a recipe for a healthy halva made with this superfood ingredient.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tahini, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Add the chopped almonds, pistachios, and dried apricots to the tahini mixture. Mix everything well until the nuts and apricots are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Line a small baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the halva mixture to the dish and use a spatula to smooth it out evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill the halva for at least 2 hours, until it is firm and has hardened.
- Once the halva is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and cut it into small squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
Conclusion
Tahini is a delicious and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. This healthy halva recipe is a great way to incorporate tahini into your diet.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that are important for overall health and well-being.
