Pasteli is a Greek sesame-and-honey bar often sold as a portable energy food.
The traditional mixture combines sesame seeds with honey and is pressed or allowed to set into a firm, chewy bar. Some versions include nuts, especially almonds, while modern products may vary in thickness and texture.
Pasteli has ancient roots in Greek food history. The Greek historian Herodotus described a similar sesame-and-honey confection, showing that the combination was known in classical times. Its simple ingredients also made it suitable for storage and travel.
Pasteli is different from sesame brittle, which is usually cooked to a harder, more brittle consistency with caramelized sugar. Pasteli generally relies on honey and has a softer, denser bite.