Gajar Ka Halwa, also known as carrot halwa, is a classic Indian dessert that is loved by many. Made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and a variety of aromatic spices, this dessert is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. If you're a fan of Indian cuisine or have a sweet tooth, then you must give this recipe a try! In this article, we'll be sharing a step-by-step guide on how to make gajar ka halwa at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg carrots, grated
- 1 liter whole milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder
Instructions:
Step 1: Wash and peel the carrots. Grate them using a grater or a food processor.
Step 2: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee on medium heat. Once it's melted, add the grated carrots and stir well.
Step 3: Cook the carrots on medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly softened and change color.
Step 4: Add the whole milk to the pan and mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
Step 5: Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure that it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the milk has been absorbed and the mixture has thickened.
Step 6: Add the sugar to the pan and mix well. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened further.
Step 7: Add the chopped mixed nuts, cardamom powder, and nutmeg powder to the pan. Stir well and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the nuts are slightly roasted and the halwa is fragrant.
Step 8: Turn off the heat and let the halwa cool down slightly. Serve warm or cold, garnished with more chopped nuts.
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh, juicy carrots for the best flavor and texture.
- Use whole milk for a creamier and richer halwa. You can also use condensed milk or evaporated milk for a thicker and sweeter halwa.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent the halwa from sticking to the bottom and burning.
- Use a mix of chopped nuts for a more varied and crunchy texture. You can also add raisins or shredded coconut for more flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet halwa, you can reduce the amount of sugar. If you prefer a spicier halwa, you can add more cardamom or cinnamon powder.
In conclusion, making gajar ka halwa at home is easy, fun, and delicious. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a dessert that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors and aromas of Indian cuisine!
