The classic confection can be found in international markets, but it's super easy to make at home with this halva recipe.
How to Make Halva, the Middle Eastern Treat
Updated on Sep. 09, 2022
It’s both fun and fulfilling to explore cuisines from cultures all over the globe. Next time you want to whip up a new sweet treat, try halva! You can make your own at home with the easy halva recipe below.
Here’s our roundup of dozens of the best comfort foods from around the world.
What Is Halva?
Halva is a traditional Middle Eastern fudge-like confection made with tahini (sesame seed paste), sugar, spices and nuts. In fact, the Arabic word halva translates to “sweetness.”
Halva’s semisweet, nutty flavor and crumbly, fluffy texture are what make it a uniquely delicious treat. This iconic candy can be found in many Middle Eastern grocery stores and street markets.
How to Make Tahini Halva
This recipe comes to us from Najmieh Batmanglij, author of Cooking in Iran. There, Najmieh shares a handful of halva recipes, but this one’s the most basic. Here’s how to make it.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup pistachio kernels
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cups tahini paste (find it in the same aisle as nut butters or on Amazon)
- 2 tablespoons rose water (available at specialty cooking shops or on Amazon)
Step 1: Toast the Pistachios
In a wide skillet over low heat, toast the pistachio kernels by shaking the pan back and forth for about 15 minutes. Stir in the cardamom and cinnamon. Remove the spice-coated nuts from the heat. Set aside.
Here are a few other handy ways to toast nuts.
Step 2: Make the Candy Base
In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the sugar and stir constantly with a wooden spoon, until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce heat to medium and allow to cook for 30 to 40 minutes. The mixture will be a thick, stretchy, caramelized syrup with a honey-like consistency. Add the lime juice and cook for one more minute.
Pro tip: If you’re using a candy thermometer, the mixture should be at 250˚F when ready.
Step 3: Beat the Ingredients
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the tahini paste, rose water and two tablespoons of the syrup for five minutes. Add the remaining syrup and mix for 15 to 20 minutes until stiff.
Step 4: Mold the Candy
Thoroughly fold in the pistachio and cardamom mixture with a spatula. Transfer the paste to the mold, cover with plastic wrap and press down to even it out. Allow the halva to dry at room temperature overnight. Remove the plastic wrap and unmold onto a platter.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the halva loaf into about 20 slices. To keep your halva fresh, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
How Can I Enjoy Halva?
Halva can be enjoyed alone or as a mix-in or topping! Here are some ideas we recommend trying:
- Enjoy with coffee or tea.
- Crumble up some halva bits and sprinkle atop homemade ice cream.
- Dip slices in melted chocolate and top with sesame seeds. Let the chocolate dry before enjoying.
- Mix halva pieces into your cookies, brownies, cakes, scones and more.
- Add some sweet crunch to fruit salad.
Given its versatility and perfect sweetness, halva might just be the next treat you try at home!
Continue Your Culinary Trip Around the Globe with These Recipes
Irish Spiced BeefIreland:
The story goes that my Irish ancestors brought this recipe along when they immigrated to the U.S. It takes nearly a week, start to finish, but that gives the meat time to become really tenderized and build up layers of flavor. —Mary Shenk, Dekalb, Illinois These doughnut recipes from around the world are the best part of waking up.
The story goes that my Irish ancestors brought this recipe along when they immigrated to the U.S. It takes nearly a week, start to finish, but that gives the meat time to become really tenderized and build up layers of flavor. —Mary Shenk, Dekalb, Illinois These doughnut recipes from around the world are the best part of waking up.
Oatmeal Dinner RollsThese fluffy rolls go perfectly with any meal. They have a delicious homemade flavor that's irresistible. I like them because they're not hard to make and they bake up nice and high. —Patricia Staudt, Marble Rock, Iowa
My aunt brought her tea bread recipe with her from Scotland, and a fresh-baked loaf has become a family tradition during the holidays. Each slice is loaded with red cherries. —Kathleen Showers, Briggsdale, Colorado Find even more breads from around the world!
Rhubarb CrumbleOur rhubarb crumble is filled with a unique combination of bright pink rhubarb stalks, fresh strawberries and apples.
Crispy Fish & ChipsA British pub classic turns crown jewel when you add horseradish, panko and Worcestershire. You can also try it with a white fish like cod or haddock. —Linda Schend, Kenosha, Wisconsin
For dessert, serve up a scoop of raspberry ripple, or another frozen treat from around the world.
Potato DumplingsGermany:
Potato dumplings (called Kartoffel Kloesse in Germany) are a delightful addition to any German feast. The browned butter sauce is delectable.—Arline Hofland, Deer Lodge, Montana
Potato dumplings (called Kartoffel Kloesse in Germany) are a delightful addition to any German feast. The browned butter sauce is delectable.—Arline Hofland, Deer Lodge, Montana
ApfelkuchenGermany:
My husband’s German family calls this Oma’s apfelkuchen, "Grandma’s apple cake." They’ve been sharing the recipe for more than 150 years. I use Granny Smith apples, but any variety works. —Amy Kirchen, Loveland, Ohio —Amy Kirchen, Loveland, Ohio
My husband’s German family calls this Oma’s apfelkuchen, "Grandma’s apple cake." They’ve been sharing the recipe for more than 150 years. I use Granny Smith apples, but any variety works. —Amy Kirchen, Loveland, Ohio —Amy Kirchen, Loveland, Ohio
Sparkling Peach BellinisFolks will savor the subtle kiss of peach flavor in this elegant brunch beverage. — Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Italian Pasta SauceItaly:
As a special part of their wedding buffet, my daughter Kris' husband fixed a big batch of this thick flavorful pasta sauce. The recipe was brought by his grandmother from Italy 80 years ago. —Judy Braun, Juneau, Wisconsin
As a special part of their wedding buffet, my daughter Kris' husband fixed a big batch of this thick flavorful pasta sauce. The recipe was brought by his grandmother from Italy 80 years ago. —Judy Braun, Juneau, Wisconsin
MacaronsThese cookies are a French classic, but you don't need to rush to a patisserie. Learn how to make macarons at home and get all the tips from our pastry pros.
Traditionally cooked for hours, this cassoulet recipe offers the same homey taste in less time. It’s easy on the wallet, too. —Virginia Anthony, Jacksonville, Florida
Shrimp SandwichA hollowed-out bun lets you get more juicy shrimp and creamy dressing in each bite of this shrimp sandwich. The crustier the bread, the better!
Crispy Norwegian BowsNorway:
I've been fixing these cookies for so long, I don't recall where the recipe came from. They're a "must" at our house.—Janie Norwood, Albany, Georgia
I've been fixing these cookies for so long, I don't recall where the recipe came from. They're a "must" at our house.—Janie Norwood, Albany, Georgia
Swedish MeatballsMom fixed this Swedish meatball recipe for all sorts of family dinners, potluck suppers and PTA meetings. The scent of browning meat is intoxicating. Add to that the sweet smell of onions caramelizing, and everyone’s mouth starts watering. —Marybeth Mank, Mesquite, Texas
Swedish Cream Apple RingsMy mother made this classic coffee cake for every important holiday... Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Now, I carry on the tradition. As I make them, I remember my mom, who was a lot like this recipe: soft and tasteful but full of surprises. The overnight rise let's you make the dough in advance so your morning won't be hectic.—Heather Hood, Hillsboro, Oregon
Dutch LettersGolden, flaky and filled with luscious almond paste, these S-shaped Dutch letters are a hit pastry in Iowa and Holland during Christmas season. Our simple 10-ingredient recipe teaches you how to master the art of this popular Dutch treat.
Dutch Baby Pancake with Strawberry-Almond CompotePannekoeken, or Dutch baked pancakes, are a treat in my husband’s family. You can also try this recipe with vanilla extract, blueberries and lemon peel. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Belgian WafflePreheat the waffle maker and start whipping up your egg whites. This traditional Belgian waffle recipe will transport you straight to Brussels.
Steamed Mussels with PeppersBelgium:
Use the French bread to soak up the deliciously seasoned broth. If you like food zippy, add the jalapeno seeds. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Use the French bread to soak up the deliciously seasoned broth. If you like food zippy, add the jalapeno seeds. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
CacoilaOur cacoila recipe is a delicious Portuguese-style twist on pulled pork. Made in a slow cooker, the pork is seasoned with paprika, red pepper flakes, cinnamon and bay leaves for a scrumptious, spicy treat. Serve the pork on bolillos or hoagie buns for a delicious sandwich.
Rabanadas (Portuguese French Toast)I find this dish a comforting reminder of my childhood. The creamy custard center contrasts deliciously with the cinnamon sugar crust. —Ana Paula Cioffi, Hayward, California
Chicken PaellaSpain:
Turmeric lends flavor and a pretty golden color to this Spanish-style entree. Haven’t tried arborio rice? You’ll love its creamy texture.
Turmeric lends flavor and a pretty golden color to this Spanish-style entree. Haven’t tried arborio rice? You’ll love its creamy texture.
Nana's Italian RouladeMy great-aunt from Sicily taught my mother how to stuff and bake a steak in a jelly-roll style. It’s unique and really special in our family. —Roseanne McDonald, Days Creek, Oregon
CuccidatiFancier than Fig Newtons and even more delicious, Italian cuccidati cookies are a traditional fruit-filled holiday cookie worth eating year-round.
KourambiethesGreece:
My daughter-in-law gave me this recipe. Her grandmother was born in Greece and bakes these cookies for special occasions, including Christmas.—Carol Dale, Greenville, Texas
My daughter-in-law gave me this recipe. Her grandmother was born in Greece and bakes these cookies for special occasions, including Christmas.—Carol Dale, Greenville, Texas
PastitsioWith seasoned ground beef, pasta and a rich cheese sauce, pastitsio is a tasty casserole everyone will love.
Caramel Apple StrudelMy father, who was born and raised in Vienna, Austria, would tell us stories about how his mother covered all the kitchen counters with dough whenever she made apple strudel. This recipe is a modern, delicious way to carry on part of my family's heritage. —Sarah Haengel, Bowie, Maryland
Austrian Walnut CookiesAustria:
Known as palatschinkens in Austria, these rich cookies melt in your mouth. The delicate, tender pastry surrounds a walnut filling that's just sweet enough. The recipe comes from a co-worker who was known for her wonderful baked goods. —Donna Gaston, Coplay, Pennsylvania
Known as palatschinkens in Austria, these rich cookies melt in your mouth. The delicate, tender pastry surrounds a walnut filling that's just sweet enough. The recipe comes from a co-worker who was known for her wonderful baked goods. —Donna Gaston, Coplay, Pennsylvania
Polish PierogiPoland:
My mother made many dozens of these and measured ingredients using the palm of her hand. We’ve passed the recipe down over the years as the family has grown. —Veronica Weinkauf, South Bend, Indiana
My mother made many dozens of these and measured ingredients using the palm of her hand. We’ve passed the recipe down over the years as the family has grown. —Veronica Weinkauf, South Bend, Indiana
KhruchikiPoland:
This traditional khruchiki recipe has been handed down through my mother's side from my great-grandmother. As a child, it was my job to loop the end of each cookie through its hole. —Sherine Elise Gilmour, Brooklyn, New York
This traditional khruchiki recipe has been handed down through my mother's side from my great-grandmother. As a child, it was my job to loop the end of each cookie through its hole. —Sherine Elise Gilmour, Brooklyn, New York
Chicken YakitoriJapan:
I grew up in Tokyo, and some of my favorite memories include eating street food like this dish with my friends. Although we now live thousands of miles apart, my friends and I still reminisce about our nights sharing secrets and bonding over delicious meals. This one is easy to re-create at home, which makes it perfect for when I'm feeling homesick. I like to serve it with rice. —Lindsay Howerton-Hastings, Greenville, South Carolina
I grew up in Tokyo, and some of my favorite memories include eating street food like this dish with my friends. Although we now live thousands of miles apart, my friends and I still reminisce about our nights sharing secrets and bonding over delicious meals. This one is easy to re-create at home, which makes it perfect for when I'm feeling homesick. I like to serve it with rice. —Lindsay Howerton-Hastings, Greenville, South Carolina
Curried Beef StewJapan:
My mother, who was Japanese, made a dish very similar to this. After a lot of experimenting, I came up with a version that is very close to the one she used to make. This beef curry stew recipe is special to me because it brings back memories of my mother. —Gloria Gowins, Dalton, Ohio
My mother, who was Japanese, made a dish very similar to this. After a lot of experimenting, I came up with a version that is very close to the one she used to make. This beef curry stew recipe is special to me because it brings back memories of my mother. —Gloria Gowins, Dalton, Ohio
My mother-in-law brought this recipe from Yugoslavia in the early 1900's. It was a tradition in her family to serve it for holidays and special occasions. Now it's my tradition. Family members often help roll our the dough and add the filling. —Mrs. Anthony Setta, Saegertown, Pennsylvania
KolachesA kolache is a yeasty, soft Czech pastry that’s topped with a cheese, poppy seed or fruit filling. It's somewhere between a doughnut and a Danish.
Cucumber Salad with Sour CreamCucumber salad with sour cream is the side dish you need. It is cool and creamy—the perfect way to use all those cucumbers from your garden!
Beef SuyaNigeria:
My Nigerian brother-in-law introduced me to beef suya, a very spicy street food that's popular in western Africa. I was intrigued when I found out the spice rub is made from ground peanuts and a blend of different seasonings. After lots of experimenting, I came up with my own version. —Elena Iorga, Irvine, California
My Nigerian brother-in-law introduced me to beef suya, a very spicy street food that's popular in western Africa. I was intrigued when I found out the spice rub is made from ground peanuts and a blend of different seasonings. After lots of experimenting, I came up with my own version. —Elena Iorga, Irvine, California
My friend shared this amazing malva pudding recipe with me. Malva pudding is a dense, spongy cake drenched in a rich, sticky butter sauce. My slow-cooker, tropical spin incorporates a creamy coconut sauce and juicy mangoes! —Carmell Childs, Orangeville, Utah
CharosetThis easy charoset recipe, a sweet combination of apples and walnuts, is a must-have at every Passover table.
Lehmejun (Armenian Pizza)Armenia:
This pizza-style recipe came from my friend Ruby's mom, who is a crazy-good cook. I added my own flair and tweaked it by using flour tortillas instead of making a dough. —Tamar Yacoubian, Ketchum, Idaho
This pizza-style recipe came from my friend Ruby's mom, who is a crazy-good cook. I added my own flair and tweaked it by using flour tortillas instead of making a dough. —Tamar Yacoubian, Ketchum, Idaho
New Zealand Rosemary Lamb ShanksNew Zealand:
When I was young my family lived in New Zealand for two years after the war. One item that was always available was lamb shanks. Mother cooked them all the time with root vegetables, and to this day I love lamb! —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
When I was young my family lived in New Zealand for two years after the war. One item that was always available was lamb shanks. Mother cooked them all the time with root vegetables, and to this day I love lamb! —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
ShortbreadNew Zealand:
I live in Missouri, but many family recipes come from New Zealand where I was born. My parents moved there when I was a year old, so I have a "Down Under" heritage. These special-occasion cookies bring back warm memories of my childhood, and I'm going to make sure they're passed on to the next generation in my family…no matter where they live! —Allen Swenson, Camdenton, Missouri
I live in Missouri, but many family recipes come from New Zealand where I was born. My parents moved there when I was a year old, so I have a "Down Under" heritage. These special-occasion cookies bring back warm memories of my childhood, and I'm going to make sure they're passed on to the next generation in my family…no matter where they live! —Allen Swenson, Camdenton, Missouri
Beef & Onion PiroshkiRussia:
When I lived in Seattle, one of my favorite places was a small stand that sold piroshki—Russian stuffed pocket sandwiches. Whenever I’m missing my former town, I make my own batch. —julie merriman, Seattle, Washington
When I lived in Seattle, one of my favorite places was a small stand that sold piroshki—Russian stuffed pocket sandwiches. Whenever I’m missing my former town, I make my own batch. —julie merriman, Seattle, Washington
Roasted Beet JamRussia:
This spicy jam recipe is from my Russian grandmother, who had no written recipes and who gave a few jars of the jam as gifts. I re-created the recipe from memory and think of her each time I prepare it. If you want to increase the yield, it's easy to double the recipe. I like to serve the jam on buttered toast or with cream cheese on toasted pita. The jars, which are dark red from the beets, make a welcome gift.—Susan Asanovic, Wilton, Connecticut
This spicy jam recipe is from my Russian grandmother, who had no written recipes and who gave a few jars of the jam as gifts. I re-created the recipe from memory and think of her each time I prepare it. If you want to increase the yield, it's easy to double the recipe. I like to serve the jam on buttered toast or with cream cheese on toasted pita. The jars, which are dark red from the beets, make a welcome gift.—Susan Asanovic, Wilton, Connecticut
Chicken Tikka MasalaEnjoy the rich, aromatic goodness of homemade chicken tikka masala. The flavor is complex and laden with spices, but the dish is easier to make than you might think.
Mango LassiIndia:
Learn how to make mango lassi, the perfect summer drink any mango lover will love. Mango lassi is a sweet and refreshing treat only needs 6 ingredients! —Namrata Telugu, Terre Haute, Indiana
Learn how to make mango lassi, the perfect summer drink any mango lover will love. Mango lassi is a sweet and refreshing treat only needs 6 ingredients! —Namrata Telugu, Terre Haute, Indiana
Thai Red Curry ChickenThai red curry chicken is a take on your favorite restaurant curry dish, and on busy nights, the frozen stir-fry veggies speed things up.
Vegetarian Pad ThaiWith this vegetarian pad thai recipe, you can make a sweet-and-tangy Thai takeout classic at home.
Thai Chicken ThighsThese very tender and moist chicken thighs come with a tangy peanut butter sauce that is irresistible. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Slow-Cooker Malaysian Chicken Malaysia:
Malaysian food has influences from the Malays, Chinese, Indians, Thai, Portuguese and British. In this dish, Asian ingredients combine for maximum flavor, and the sweet potatoes help to thicken the sauce as the dish slowly cooks. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Malaysian food has influences from the Malays, Chinese, Indians, Thai, Portuguese and British. In this dish, Asian ingredients combine for maximum flavor, and the sweet potatoes help to thicken the sauce as the dish slowly cooks. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Scallion PancakesCrispy, flaky and slightly chewy, scallion pancakes are a favorite appetizer or dim sum dish at Chinese restaurants. Make a stack of your own on a lazy morning and serve them with our savory-sweet dipping sauce.
Try this tanghulu recipe next!
Sweet and Sour PorkNo need for messy deep-frying! Our stir-fried sweet and sour pork recipe bathes chunks of tender pork, tangy pineapples and crisp vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
Pork Lettuce WrapsThese popular Vietnamese pork lettuce wraps are light and tasty, easy to make and filled to the brim with delicious flavor. Bonus: from start to finish they're ready to eat in well under 1 hour.
Fresh Spring RollsLearn how to make rice paper-wrapped spring rolls that are fresh, crunchy and delicious. It is easier than you think!
Stir-Fry Rice BowlMy meatless version of Korean bibimbap is tasty, pretty and easy to tweak for different spice levels. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Korean Sausage BowlSouth Korea:
When we hosted a student from South Korea, she shared some of her favorite Korean dishes. We especially like bibimbap. I created a variation on the dish with Italian sausage. —Michal Riege, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
When we hosted a student from South Korea, she shared some of her favorite Korean dishes. We especially like bibimbap. I created a variation on the dish with Italian sausage. —Michal Riege, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Filipino Chicken AdoboFilipino adobo is an easy-to-make weeknight staple. Its versatility and ease of cooking is one of the reasons chicken adobo is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines.
Bola-Bola Philippines:
Bola-bola (Filipino-style meatballs) can be served as an appetizer or stirred into soup. Some versions of this recipe roll the meatballs in flour or bread crumbs before frying for a crisp coating. Serve plain or with a dipping sauce. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Bola-bola (Filipino-style meatballs) can be served as an appetizer or stirred into soup. Some versions of this recipe roll the meatballs in flour or bread crumbs before frying for a crisp coating. Serve plain or with a dipping sauce. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Australian Sausage RollsKeep reading for how to make authentic Australian sausage rolls, which make for a fantastic appetizer for your next dinner party.
ZimtsterneSwitzerland:
During December, homes and bakeries in Switzerland are filled with the aroma of classic cookies like these "Zimtsterne." —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
During December, homes and bakeries in Switzerland are filled with the aroma of classic cookies like these "Zimtsterne." —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Slow-Cooker Chickpea Tagine Morocco:
While traveling through Morocco, my wife and I fell in love with the complex flavors of the many tagines we tried. Resist the urge to stir this dish too much, as it will break down the veggies. Add shredded cooked chicken in the last 10 minutes, or serve with grilled fish. —Raymond Wyatt, West St. Paul, Minnesota
While traveling through Morocco, my wife and I fell in love with the complex flavors of the many tagines we tried. Resist the urge to stir this dish too much, as it will break down the veggies. Add shredded cooked chicken in the last 10 minutes, or serve with grilled fish. —Raymond Wyatt, West St. Paul, Minnesota
My husband loves his meat and I love my veggies, so we're both happy with this spiced twist on the beefy pot roast. With chickpeas, eggplant, honey and mint, it's like something you'd eat at a Marrakech bazaar. —Catherine Dempsey, Clifton Park, New York
Best LasagnaWhat makes this classic lasagna recipe so spectacular? Homemade meat sauce and plenty of cheese. Best of all, it's easy to make lasagna ahead of time so dinner can be ready in a flash.
Lime and Dill Chimichurri ShrimpArgentina:
Chimichurri is a very popular condiment in Argentina and Uruguay and is most often used as a dipping sauce or a marinade for meats. My chimichurri shrimp version incorporates dill and lime, which give it a brighter flavor and makes it ideal for spring and summer entertaining. —Bonnie Landy, Castro Valley, California
Chimichurri is a very popular condiment in Argentina and Uruguay and is most often used as a dipping sauce or a marinade for meats. My chimichurri shrimp version incorporates dill and lime, which give it a brighter flavor and makes it ideal for spring and summer entertaining. —Bonnie Landy, Castro Valley, California
Brazilian Pork & Black Bean StewDuring high school, I spent a year in Brazil and fell in love with the culture and food. One of my favorite dishes was feijoada, a chili/stew served over white rice. I introduced this easy recipe to my family, and it has become one of our favorite comfort foods. —Andrea Romanczyk, Magna, Utah
CazuelaThis cazuela recipe brings the warmth and comfort of Chilean cuisine to your table in just under an hour. Packed with chicken, squash and potatoes, it's the perfect hearty stew to enjoy over rice.
Easy Cuban PicadilloCuba:
My girlfriend gave me this delicious recipe years ago. I’ve made it ever since for family and friends, and they all love it. My daughter loves to take leftovers to school for lunch the next day. —Marie Wielgus, Wayne, New Jersey
My girlfriend gave me this delicious recipe years ago. I’ve made it ever since for family and friends, and they all love it. My daughter loves to take leftovers to school for lunch the next day. —Marie Wielgus, Wayne, New Jersey
Easy Ropa Vieja StewCuba:
Use your slow cooker for this meaty Cuban classic, which offers bold flavors without a lot of hands-on time. —Denise Nyland, Panama City, Florida
Use your slow cooker for this meaty Cuban classic, which offers bold flavors without a lot of hands-on time. —Denise Nyland, Panama City, Florida
Lemon & Garlic New PotatoesThis is a simplified version of a dish my Costa Rican host sister used to make when I was in the Peace Corps. It has become a favorite side dish at my house. —Katie Bartle, Parkville, Missouri
Caribbean Curried ChickenVirgin Islands:
Having grown up in the Virgin Islands, I've eaten my fair share of authentic curried chicken. This recipe hits the mark with big, bold flavors. It's delicious served over rice. —Sharon Gibson, Hendersonville, North Carolina
Having grown up in the Virgin Islands, I've eaten my fair share of authentic curried chicken. This recipe hits the mark with big, bold flavors. It's delicious served over rice. —Sharon Gibson, Hendersonville, North Carolina
Coconut Mango Bread Pudding with Rum SaucePuerto Rico:
All of the fun flavors of Puerto Rico come together in a dessert that's both exotic and familiar. Topped with a brown sugar rum sauce, it's even better with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. —Jennifer Jackson, Keller, Texas
All of the fun flavors of Puerto Rico come together in a dessert that's both exotic and familiar. Topped with a brown sugar rum sauce, it's even better with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. —Jennifer Jackson, Keller, Texas
Peppered Cilantro RicePuerto Rico:
This colorful confetti rice is a traditional dish in Puerto Rico. We enjoy it in the summer alongside grilled shrimp kabobs, but it is good with most any entree. -Laura Lunardi of West Chester, Pennsylvania
This colorful confetti rice is a traditional dish in Puerto Rico. We enjoy it in the summer alongside grilled shrimp kabobs, but it is good with most any entree. -Laura Lunardi of West Chester, Pennsylvania
Jamaican-Style Beef StewJamaica:
This delicious stew makes a hearty supper with a lighter touch. The leaner cut of meat, herbs and seasonings and fresh vegetables make it so flavorful, you'll want another bowl! —James Hayes, Ridgecrest, California Try these other traditional Jamaican foods!
This delicious stew makes a hearty supper with a lighter touch. The leaner cut of meat, herbs and seasonings and fresh vegetables make it so flavorful, you'll want another bowl! —James Hayes, Ridgecrest, California Try these other traditional Jamaican foods!
This Jamaican cabbage and saltfish recipe is a quick and healthy dish that feels like a slice of home. Perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner, this low-calorie meal is full of flavor. —Candi Rookwood-Clarke, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Jamaican Chocolate Cookies with Caramel CremeJamaica:
I made these for an office party cookie contest—and not a crumb was left on the platter! Sweet potatoes are the secret ingredient. Canned sweet potatoes will work, too, if you're short on time. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota
I made these for an office party cookie contest—and not a crumb was left on the platter! Sweet potatoes are the secret ingredient. Canned sweet potatoes will work, too, if you're short on time. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Quick Tacos al PastorWe loved the pork and pineapple tacos from a food truck in Hawaii. My husband, a high school football referee, gives my version a thumbs-up. —Lori McLain, Denton, Texas
Slow-Cooker Pork PozoleI make this heartwarming stew with pork ribs and hominy often. It's a filling recipe of lightly spiced comfort. —Genie Gunn, Asheville, North Carolina
Calgary Nanaimo BarsThis version of Nanaimo bars may claim roots in Alberta, but the original was said to be dreamed up in a British Columbia kitchen. They're three delicious layers of Canadian goodness. —Carol Hillier, Calgary, Alberta
Best HamburgerThis is the only hamburger recipe you need! We'll walk you through how to make hamburger patties that grill up to juicy perfection.
Note: Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
