Sohan Halwa

Sohan Halwa is a cherished traditional dessert originating from West Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Renowned for its dense, sweet, and chewy texture, this confection has been adored for centuries. Gheewala halwa, a variation of sohan halwa, has enjoyed particular popularity since the Mughal era. In cities such as Multan and Dera Ismail Khan, numerous shops have crafted this delightful treat for generations, driven by a deep-rooted passion for the dessert.

The preparation of sohan halwa involves boiling a mixture of water, sugar, milk, and cornflour until it solidifies. Saffron is often added for enhanced flavor, and ghee is used to prevent sticking. The inclusion of almonds, pistachios, and cardamom seeds imparts a rich, aromatic taste. Unlike other halwa varieties found in the Indian subcontinent, sohan halwa is solid, more akin to its Middle Eastern counterparts.

The Hafiz Halwa shop in Multan asserts that sohan halwa was introduced by Dewan Sawan Mal, the ruler of Multan in 1750. However, some believe its origins trace back to Persia, where it was a customary sweet served at social gatherings. According to S. Abdul Khaliq, the dessert was brought to the Indian subcontinent in the early 16th century when Mughal emperor Humayun returned to power following his exile in Persia.

For years, traditional confectioners have crafted sohan halwa with meticulous care. The dessert is typically brittle and caramelized, often shaped into discs or square pieces. Traditionally, it was packaged in intricately designed tin cylinders, though other packaging methods have become popular in recent times.

Several notable brands have helped elevate the prestige of sohan halwa, including Hafiz Sohan Halwa, Bhutta Sohan Halwa Multan, Abdul Wadood Sohan Halwa Multan, and Rewari Sohan Halwa. These brands have played a significant role in spreading the love for this traditional dessert far and wide.