The easiest way to describe Gajar Halwa is carrot pudding, although it’s so much more than that.
In India, it’s a traditional delicacy to serve guests who are paying you a visit, and it’s usually reserved as the dessert at big Indian weddings and other festive occasions.
Here’s how you can make this delicious carrot halwa recipe at home in 3 easy steps…
Introduction
This Gajar Halwa recipe is a traditional Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and nuts.
It’s traditionally prepared for festivals such as Diwali or Dussehra.
Traditionally, it’s eaten as a sweet dish during celebrations.
The flavor comes from the use of grated carrots which give the dish its orange color.
Carrots are used because they are in season at this time of year and also because they are rich in beta-carotene which gives them their orange color.
This recipe can be served chilled or warm depending on your preference.
The ingredients you’ll need
You will need
1/4 cup ghee,
1 and 3/4 cups of sugar,
3 cups of grated carrots,
2 tablespoons of milk or water,
2 teaspoons of cardamom powder,
and a pinch of saffron strands.
Melt the ghee in a deep pan or karahi on medium heat.
Add the sugar to it.
Once the sugar has melted completely add the carrots to it stirring constantly until they are cooked.
Add milk or water to help cook if needed but do not use too much as it will change the texture and consistency.
Mix in cardamom powder and saffron strands until combined. Transfer halwa into a serving bowl and enjoy!
Step-by-step instructions
This is a traditional recipe that is eaten during the winter season. In India, it is served on Diwali and during the festival of lights. It’s traditionally made with carrots, milk, ghee and sugar but you can use your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Here’s how you do it:
- Boil the carrots until they are soft and drain off any excess water
- Melt in a pot over medium heat – Add 1⁄2 cup of ghee and 1⁄2 cup of sugar to the pot and stir until all of the sugar has dissolved into the mixture – Add 11⁄2 cups of whole milk to the pot, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil and thickens slightly (about 5 minutes)
- Reduce the heat to low and add 3⁄4 cup chopped almonds or cashews. Cook for about 15 more minutes stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat, add cardamom powder and chopped pistachios for garnish and serve warm!
Tips and tricks
Gajar halwa is a traditional dessert that is served during the winter months in India.
It is a popular dish for celebrations such as Diwali, Janmashtami and other Hindu festivals.
It can be made in advance and refrigerated or frozen for up to one month.
This carrot halwa recipe is easy to make, requiring just three
ingredients:
cooked grated carrots, ghee (clarified butter), and sugar.
The sweetness of the dish can be adjusted by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference.
1) Peel and grate 3 cups of carrots by hand or use an electric grater to grate them in batches.
2) Heat the ghee over medium heat in a large pot. Once melted, add the grated carrots and stir. Cook for about 10 minutes until tender but not browned.
3) Stir in the sugar, reduce heat to low and cook for another 30 minutes until thickened.
4) Serve hot with Indian breads like roti or naan
Conclusion
Looking for a recipe for gajar halwa? Look no further. I have finally found the best recipe that has been tried and true. It is perfect for any occasion and tastes delicious. The ingredients are simple to find, which makes this dish even better. Follow the easy recipe above for the most satisfying carrot halwa you will ever eat!
