Halva

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine 1.5 cups water and 0.75 cup sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high, stirring until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, melt 0.5 cup butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup semolina and toast, stirring constantly, until golden and nutty, about 8 minutes.

Step 3

Carefully pour the hot sugar syrup into the toasted semolina. Stir vigorously; it will bubble. Cook until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the pan, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 8-inch square pan, smoothing the top.

Step 5

Drizzle 0.25 cup heavy cream over the top in a zigzag pattern. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds. Let cool for 15 minutes, then cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.