Artificial Food Coloring Free Almond Halva with Honey and Turmeric
Halva has a way of feeling both ancient and indulgent at the same time, and this version delivers that same magic with nothing but real, whole ingredients. The golden color you see here comes entirely from ground turmeric and cinnamon — no dyes, no synthetic additives, just spices doing what spices do best. Tahini forms the rich, nutty base, while a honey syrup cooked to the firm-ball stage gives the finished slab its characteristic crumbly-yet-fudgy texture that practically melts on your tongue. Toasted almonds folded in at the end add a satisfying crunch and a warmth that makes every bite feel a little more special. For anyone navigating artificial coloring concerns, store-bought confections and candy can be a minefield, so making this at home means you know exactly what went into it. The process is surprisingly approachable — a candy thermometer does the heavy lifting — and the result is a stunning, sliceable treat that looks like it came from a specialty shop. Serve it at room temperature and watch it disappear.
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Learn more →Ingredients
16 servings
- 2 cups tahini, well-stirred and at room temperature
- 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
- 1 cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Line an 8×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides. Place the tahini in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or use a large bowl with a hand mixer) and set aside at room temperature.
- 2
Toast the chopped almonds in a dry medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside. Wipe out the saucepan.
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