Halva ardeh

Halva ardeh is a sweet, dense Iranian paste that is usually prepared with a base of sugar and ground sesame or tahini. The mixture is occasionally studded with pistachios, but it is traditionally merely topped with pistachio slivers. Though it can be enjoyed as a sweet snack, halva ardeh is a common breakfast staple and is occasionally served with bread on the side.

This classic confectionery item should not be mistaken with other halva varieties that can be prepared with different combinations of flour, lentils, butter, nuts, rose water, and saffron.