Greek Sesame Candy (Pasteli)

Step 1

Get ready. Line a small sheet pan with parchment paper. Brush the parchment with a thin layer of olive oil and set aside.

Step 2

Toast the sesame seeds. Add the sesame seeds to a nonstick pan and set over medium heat. Toast, stirring with a wooden spoon until they turn golden brown, then transfer to a plate.

Step 3

Warm the honey. Set the pan back on medium heat and add the honey. Stir regularly as the honey comes to a boil (about 250°F, if you have a thermometer), then allow to boil and foam for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4

Combine the sesame and honey. Add the sesame seeds back to the pan with the boiling honey. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

Step 5

Assemble. Pour the honey and sesame mixture onto the prepared sheet pan. Spread it with a spoon as evenly as you can. Grease another sheet of parchment paper and cover the top (this is so it’s easy to remove.) Use your hands or a small rolling pin to spread the mixture evenly. Remove and discard the top piece of parchment.

Step 6

Cool and slice. Cool for about 20 minutes or so (it should not fully harden). Use a sharp knife to slice into small rectangular bars or squares.