Sesame seed candy, also known as Tilgul in some regions, is a popular sweet treat in Ethiopia. This crunchy and nutty candy is made from sesame seeds and honey or sugar, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures. It’s a simple yet delightful dessert that can be enjoyed by all.
Ingredients
1 cup sesame seeds (white or black, or a mix)
1/2 cup honey or sugar (you can use a mix of both if preferred)
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Toast the Sesame Seeds
Place the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat.
Toast them
Toast the seeds, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the seeds
Remove the seeds from the heat and set them aside.
Prepare the Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the honey (or sugar), butter (if using), ground cardamom (if using), and salt.
Add heat to it
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.
Cook well
Continue to cook the syrup until it reaches the soft ball stage (about 240°F or 115°C on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball.
Mix with Sesame Seeds
Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat.
Stir continuously
Quickly stir in the toasted sesame seeds until they are evenly coated with the syrup.
Shape the Candy
Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly greased surface.
Spread mixture
Use a spatula or rolling pin to spread the mixture into an even layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
Let it cool
Allow it to cool for a few minutes until it is still pliable but not hot.
Cut candy
Cut the candy into desired shapes (squares, rectangles, or diamonds) while it is still warm.
Cool Completely
Let the cut candy cool completely at room temperature. It will harden as it cools. Once fully cooled, break the pieces apart and store them in an airtight container.
Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their flavor, so don’t skip this step.
If using sugar, be careful not to burn it while making the syrup.
You can add other seeds or nuts, like sunflower seeds or chopped almonds, for variation.
Store the sesame seed candy in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Sesame seed candy is a delightful and nutritious treat that showcases the simplicity and richness of Ethiopian desserts. Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or even as a part of festive celebrations!
