Central Africa · Dessert
Al-Halwa (Caramelized Sesame Seed Brittle)
Crisp, amber-hued sesame brittle scented with green cardamom, ginger, and wildflower honey, offering an addictive crunch and nutty warmth.
The story
Found in nearly every market stall from Sarh to N'Djamena and across eastern Ouaddaï, Al-Halwa is the quintessential Chadian confectionery shared during wedding ceremonies, Mawlid celebrations, and family gatherings. Sesame cultivation thrives along the fertile riverbanks of the Chari and Logone, making seeds a staple confection base rather than imported sugar alone. Master sweet-makers calibrate the sugar syrup by sight and scent over charcoal stoves, pulling the caramel off the coals the exact moment the toasted sesame aroma blooms into the caramelizing honey.
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