Koska Pistachio Halva – 350 g

Break off a corner of this block and you will see why pistachio halva has been a Turkish breakfast favourite for generations. Koska's 350g pack combines dense, flaky sesame halva with bright green pieces of pistachio, giving you a sweet that crumbles beautifully on the tongue and pairs perfectly with a glass of tea.

What Is It Made From?

In Turkey, the word helva covers a whole family of sweets, but the one most people picture is tahini halva. It is made by heating sugar into a syrup and then working it vigorously into tahini, a smooth sesame paste made from roasted, ground sesame seeds. As the two are kneaded together, the mixture develops long, fine fibres, which is what gives good halva its characteristic flaky, almost stringy texture.

The flavour is nutty and toasty from the sesame, sweet without being sickly, and wonderfully rich. Adding pistachio brings colour, a gentle crunch and a slightly floral note that balances the depth of the tahini.

Why Koska?

Koska has been making confectionery in Istanbul since the early twentieth century, and for many Turkish families it is the first name that comes to mind when they think of halva. A block of Koska helva is a familiar sight on breakfast tables, in school lunch boxes and in the cupboards of grandparents across the country. That long history shows in the consistency of the product: the texture is reliably flaky, and the balance of sesame and sugar is just right. Open a new pack and you will notice the fresh, roasted aroma straight away.

How to Enjoy Pistachio Halva

At Breakfast

Cut a few slices and serve with fresh bread, white cheese, olives and a pot of black tea. In many Turkish homes, a small plate of halva is as standard at breakfast as jam or honey. Some people like to spread it on warm toast, where it softens slightly and becomes almost creamy.

As a Snack or Dessert

• Enjoy a small piece with Turkish coffee after dinner.
• Crumble over vanilla ice cream or thick yoghurt.
• Fold into brownie batter or cookie dough for a nutty twist.
• Sandwich between two slices of bread for a classic Turkish school lunch.
• Serve on a dessert platter with dried fruit and nuts.

Pistachio halva is quite rich, so a little goes a long way. A thin slice is usually enough to satisfy a sweet craving.

A Traditional Sweet With Staying Power

Because it contains very little moisture, halva keeps well without refrigeration, which is why it has been a staple of Turkish pantries for so long. It is also widely enjoyed during Ramadan, when a small piece after iftar is a familiar way to end the meal.

Storage and Allergens

Store in a cool, dry place and keep the pack well sealed after opening. Avoid heat, which can make the oil separate. Contains sesame and pistachio. Please check the label for full allergen details.

Order Online From Robin Food

Robin Food delivers Turkish sweets and breakfast favourites across the UK, with same-day delivery available in many London areas. Pair your halva with our mulberry molasses, Turkish white cheese and Çaykur Tiryaki tea.