Gajar ka Halwa
Enjoy the rich history and flavors of Gajar ka Halwa with our step-by-step recipe guide. This traditional Indian dish, made from the winter harvest, will satisfy your taste senses. Discover the ideal combination of grated carrots, milk, ghee, and sugar in this classic dessert for four.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Calories: 300kcal
- 4 cups grated carrots
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, and pistachios)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 1 tablespoon raisins
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Grate the carrots.
Start by peeling and shredding 4 cups of fresh carrots. The fine texture of the grated carrots is essential to the halwa's silky smoothness.
Step 2: Roast Nuts.
In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons ghee and toast the chopped nuts until golden brown. Set away for future use.
Step 3: Cook the grated carrots.
In a heavy-bottomed skillet or kadai, heat the remaining ghee and sauté the grated carrots over medium heat. Stir frequently until the carrots release moisture and the raw smell goes away.
Step 4: Add milk.
When the carrots are partially cooked, add the full-fat milk. Stir thoroughly and allow to simmer over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 5: Infuse Flavours
To improve the flavor, add cardamom powder and (if using) saffron strands. Allow the ingredients to slowly simmer, absorbing the milk and converting into a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Sweeten the deal.
As the carrots absorb the milk and become tender, add sugar to sweeten the halwa. Adjust the sugar quantity to your taste. Continue cooking until the halwa reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and serve.
Combine the toasted nuts and raisins, reserving a few for garnishing. Stir thoroughly to disperse the flavors evenly. Remove the halwa from heat when it has a rich, deep color and a thick consistency.
Step 8: Serve warm.
Garnish with nuts and raisins. Gajar ka Halwa is best served warm. Serve it in bowls and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors that defines this traditional Indian dish.