Sesame Candy

Sesame Candy Recipe from Saudi Arabia | Delicious Honey and Sesame Seed Treat

Region / culture: Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Sesame candy is a delicious and crunchy treat that is popular in many cultures around the world. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this candy is easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

History

Sesame candy has been enjoyed for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient civilizations in the Middle East and Asia. The combination of honey and sesame seeds creates a unique and flavorful candy that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

3 cups of honey
2 cups of sesame seeds
peanut oil
Oolala

How to prepare

Do not make candy on a hot or humid day.
In a deep, medium-sized saucepan, slowly heat honey over medium-low heat, using a heat diffuser, until it reaches the hard-crack stage (about 305 to 310°F on a candy thermometer).
Stir frequently to prevent boiling over, for approximately 45 minutes.
Stir in sesame seeds.
Set aside for a few minutes to cool slightly.
Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking sheet with peanut oil. Do not use waxed paper.
Pour the honey mixture onto the greased baking sheet.
Place the baking sheet on a cooling rack.
Once cooled, but not hardened, score the candy into diamond shapes.
Once completely cooled, remove the candy from the sheet and separate it into individual pieces.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the candy for a sweet and salty flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure the honey reaches the hard-crack stage for the perfect texture.

- Stir the honey mixture frequently to prevent it from boiling over.

- Grease the baking sheet lightly with peanut oil to prevent sticking.

- Score the candy into diamond shapes while it is still slightly warm to make it easier to break apart once cooled.

Serving Suggestions

Sesame candy is perfect for snacking on its own, or you can crumble it over yogurt or ice cream for a sweet and crunchy topping.

Cooking Techniques

Use a heat diffuser when heating the honey to prevent burning.

- Stir the honey mixture constantly to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey.

- Use any type of nuts or seeds in place of sesame seeds for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Sesame candy can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sesame candy on a decorative platter or in a gift box for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy sesame candy with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delicious snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store sesame candy in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few seconds until slightly softened.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of sesame candy contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of sesame candy contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Sesame candy is a good source of healthy fats, with each serving containing around 15 grams.

Proteins

Each serving of sesame candy provides about 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sesame seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Alergens

Sesame candy may contain allergens such as nuts and honey. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Sesame candy is a delicious treat that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Sesame candy is a delightful treat that is easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crunchy and sweet candy that is perfect for snacking or gifting to friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha who lived down the street. Martha was known in our neighborhood for her delicious homemade candies, and that day she was busy in the kitchen making a batch of sesame candy.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the sweet aroma of toasted sesame seeds and honey. Martha greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a small piece of the candy to try. The moment I took a bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Martha laughed at my eagerness and offered to teach me her recipe. She explained that sesame candy was a traditional treat in her family, passed down from generation to generation. The combination of nutty sesame seeds and sweet honey was a match made in heaven, she said.

I watched closely as Martha mixed the sesame seeds with honey in a large pot over low heat. She stirred the mixture constantly, making sure it didn't burn. After a few minutes, the mixture started to thicken and turn a deep golden color. Martha poured it onto a greased baking sheet and smoothed it out with a spatula.

While the candy cooled, Martha shared stories of her childhood and how her grandmother used to make sesame candy for special occasions. She told me how her grandmother would roast the sesame seeds herself and grind them into a fine powder before adding them to the honey.

I listened intently, taking mental notes of every step and ingredient Martha used. I could feel the excitement building inside me as I imagined sharing this delicious treat with my own family and friends.

After the candy had cooled and hardened, Martha cut it into small squares and offered me another piece. I savored the crunchy texture and rich flavor, savoring every bite. I thanked Martha profusely for sharing her recipe with me and promised to make it for my family soon.

That night, as I lay in bed, I couldn't stop thinking about the sesame candy. I was determined to recreate Martha's recipe and make it my own. The next day, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen.

I carefully measured out the sesame seeds and honey, just as Martha had shown me. I toasted the sesame seeds in a dry pan until they were fragrant and golden brown. Then, I mixed them with the honey in a pot and cooked them over low heat, stirring constantly.

As the mixture thickened and turned a deep golden color, I poured it onto a greased baking sheet and smoothed it out with a spatula. I let it cool and harden before cutting it into small squares. The moment of truth had arrived.

I took a bite of the sesame candy and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar taste and texture. It was just as delicious as Martha's version, if not better. I couldn't believe I had made it myself.

From that day on, sesame candy became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for every special occasion and shared it with family and friends. Each time I made it, I thought of Martha and her generosity in sharing her recipe with me.

Over the years, I tweaked the recipe and added my own twist to it. Sometimes I would sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for an extra crunch, or drizzle it with chocolate for a decadent touch. But no matter how I changed it, the essence of the sesame candy remained the same - a sweet reminder of friendship and tradition.

As I grew older, I passed down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren. I taught them the importance of preserving family recipes and traditions, just as Martha had taught me. Sesame candy became more than just a treat; it became a link to the past and a symbol of love and connection.

And so, every time I make sesame candy, I think of Martha and the day she showed me her recipe. I am grateful for her kindness and for the gift of a delicious treat that will forever hold a special place in my heart.