As the holy month of Ramadan begins in southern Iran, families in Shiraz prepare for iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast. Among the traditional foods on the table, one sweet stands out as a favorite of locals: Tar Halva. This dessert is valued for its energy-boosting qualities. Made with wheat flour, natural syrups, and oil, it has a “warming” effect, especially after a long day of fasting. Even with the rise of modern sweets, Tar Halva remains a key part of Ramadan traditions and a symbol of the city’s culinary heritage.
For many households, it is more than food. Tar Halva carries memories of family gatherings, laughter, and shared meals before sunset. Mohammad Ramazani-Pour, a Shirazi cook who has prepared it for decades, says the process matters as much as the ingredients. “Before it is a food, it is patience,” he explains. He begins with high-quality wheat flour, which he toasts slowly over gentle heat until it turns a light golden color. He stirs constantly to prevent burning. Then he adds oil gradually, followed by grape or date syrup for sweetness. Finally, saffron and cardamom are mixed in for aroma. The dessert is ready when it thickens and pulls slightly from the pan.
Food specialists say Tar Halva fits the needs of those who fast. Zahra Mohammadi-Nia, a food expert, explains that toasting the flour improves both flavor and digestibility. Natural syrups provide simple sugars that restore energy quickly after hours without food. Homemade versions contain no artificial colors, refined sugars, or preservatives, making it a healthier choice than many processed sweets. Moderate oil content also helps people feel full and maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Its continued presence on Ramadan tables shows that Iranians cherish their culinary heritage. Even as packaged and modern desserts dominate markets, this traditional sweet preserves family traditions, strengthens social bonds, and adds a taste of history to the iftar table. In Shiraz, every spoonful is more than flavor—it is a reminder of patience, care, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones during the holy month.