Halvah

Many people have known different oriental sweets since childhood: for example, Turkish-lucum, nougat kozinaki or halva. We loved them for their pleasant aroma and unusual, bright taste. But it turns out that some of them are not only delicious, but also very useful. Let's talk, in particular, about halva, which is a famous oriental dessert. It is made from sugar, seeds or nuts. By the way, the word "halva" is used to describe not one product, but several types of confectionery. One type of halva is based on shredded oilseeds, while the other is based on vegetables or wheat flour.

Not only gastronomic, but also useful properties of halva were known back in the fifth century BC in Iran, where it was made using special technology. The cooking process consisted in a special technology of drawing, kneading and cooling, as a result of which a crumbly sweetness was to be obtained, which left the most delicate taste, melted on the tongue.

Halwa composition

Currently, factories that specialize in confectionery prepare halva according to their recipes and secrets, combining a variety of additives. These can be sesame seeds, nuts, candied fruits, peanuts, cocoa powder and many other ingredients. But despite the difference in formulations, the main composition of the halva has not changed - these are sugar, molasses and seeds of oilseeds.

Disintegration, as a characteristic feature of this product, is formed due to the fact that the caramel mass is beaten into foam, as a result of which the halva acquires a layered fibrous structure. Then sweet air mass is mixed with pre-fried, then finely ground seeds of those crops which are rich in vegetable oils. Sunflower or sesame is ideal in this regard. Due to possible variations in the composition of halva, more than a dozen varieties of this oriental delicacy are currently distinguished.

Halwa benefits

The benefits of halva lie in its composition and nutritional value. For example, it contains more than 30 percent of high-quality vegetable fats that are free from cholesterol. This property can hardly "boast" some other confectionery product. In addition, it also has polyunsaturated fatty acids (linolenic and linoleic) that help resist atherosclerosis.

The benefits of halva are also indicated by the fact that it is an indisputable source of full-fledged protein. It also contains a large number of dietary fibers that contribute to the activation of the intestine. But perhaps the most important advantage of halva is the increased content of vitamin E, which acts as a stimulant of reproductive function, which is relevant for women of childbearing age.

Harms of halwa

Despite all the healthy qualities of halwa, this sweet product is not good for everyone. It should be borne in mind that this is primarily a confectionery product, and not a medicine in any way, so you should be judicious. Halva's calorie content, which is quite high, does not allow you to regularly indulge yourself in those people who are concerned about the problem of excess weight, obesity and diabetes. In addition, the components of this oriental sweetness can provoke various allergic reactions, then we can also talk about the dangers of halva.