Jews from Persia (present-day Iran) are especially proud of Queen Esther's role in the holiday of Purim. A favorite dish of Iranian children is halvah, which they eat after they break the fast of Esther, observed on Adar 13.

Halvah

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups water
1 cup chopped walnuts

Equipment:
Measuring cups
Measuring spoon
Large frying pan with cover
Wooden spoon
Spatula

Adult with Child: In a frying pan, brown the flour over low heat, watching constantly, for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.

Child: To the flour, add the sugar, cinnamon, and oil. With the pan off the heat, stir for about 5 minutes, keeping the mixture a light brown color.

Adult: Add the water and reheat, stirring for about 5 minutes, until the halvah thickens. Then cover and simmer slowly for 5 minutes more. Fold in the walnuts.

Child: Let cool, then cut into squares.

Makes about 20 squares.

Recipe from: The Children's Jewish Holiday Kitchen by Joan Nathan.