Gaz (candy)

The Persian word () is a clipping of ("gaz honey"), in reference to tamarisk and astragalus shrubs ==History==

Similar confections known as halva have been made in Persia since around the 9th century Saffarid period. The modern form of gaz dates backs 450 years to the Safavid period, the honeydew found on Persian manna being combined with egg white, sugar, glucose syrup, rosewater, and pistachios and/or almonds in traditional and industrial workshops. The sweet, milky honey () found on the gaz plant is associated with manna, a food mentioned in the religious texts of the Abrahamic religions. Under Qajar rule, gaz was provided by local magnates as a gift to Persian and Ottoman officials. ==Manufacture and style==

A large bush, (previously mistakenly identified as ) in its final instar. The honeydew is collected annually and combined with other ingredients including pistachio or almond kernels, rosewater, and egg white. Modern versions of gaz frequently use sugar, glucose, and corn syrup as substitutes for psyllid manna. The traditional way to serve gaz is in round pieces that are about in diameter and up to thick. A modern presentation is to serve the nougat cut into smaller rectangles. Pieces may be dusted with flour or cornflour to keep them separated and easier to handle. Depending on the added ingredients, gaz can have a subtle rose flavor, a nutty taste, or a savory and pungent profile, and it can be white or another color due to the addition of nuts or of spices such as saffron. ==Nowruz==

Celebrations such as Nowruz, the Persian New Year, feature gaz. During the Nowruz holiday, family and friends visit each other's homes and, typically, the host offers fruits and sweets to their guests. Served with sherbet or tea, gaz is a favorite delicacy and a much-appreciated gift as it helps to ensure that a household will have ample snacks to serve all holiday visitors. ==See also==