Middle Eastern Halva

Steps

1. Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a heat-proof bowl, combine tahini and vanilla; set aside.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine sugar, cardamom, and water. Simmer, stirring, until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
4. Increase heat to medium and boil the mixture until it reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove syrup from heat and slowly pour into the tahini mixture, stirring vigorously until smooth and glossy.
6. Stir in the chopped pistachios.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set, about 24 hours.
9. Slice while cold, then let sit at room temperature before serving.