Gajar Ka Halwa: A Delightful Indian Dessert Recipe

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    Introduction

    Gajar Ka Halwa, also known as carrot halwa, is a beloved Indian dessert that captures the essence of traditional Indian cooking. Made primarily from grated carrots, this dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The recipe is simple yet yields a delightful outcome that can impress any guest. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this scrumptious dish with the expertise of IndianBreakfastRecipe.

    Ingredients

    To prepare Gajar Ka Halwa, you will need the following ingredients:

    • 500 grams of carrots (preferably red or orange, grated)
    • 1 liter of full-fat milk
    • 200 grams of sugar (adjust to taste)
    • 100 grams of ghee (clarified butter)
    • A handful of cashews and almonds (chopped)
    • A handful of raisins
    • 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder
    • Optional: khoya or mawa (for extra richness)

    Preparation Steps

    1. Grate the Carrots: Start by washing and peeling the carrots. Grate them using a grater or a food processor. The finer the grating, the better the texture of the halwa.

    2. Cook the Carrots: In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat the ghee on medium flame. Once hot, add the grated carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly.

    3. Add Milk: Pour in the full-fat milk and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the milk to reduce and thicken.

    4. Sweeten the Halwa: Once the milk has reduced to half its quantity, add the sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens further.

    5. Add Flavorings: Sprinkle the cardamom powder into the halwa, mixing it in well. Add khoya or mawa at this stage if you want a richer flavor.

    6. Garnish: In a separate small pan, heat a little ghee and fry the chopped nuts and raisins until golden. Add this mixture to the halwa and mix well.

    Serving Suggestions

    Gajar Ka Halwa can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion. It is often garnished with additional nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. This dish is perfect for festivals, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat after a meal.

    Conclusion

    Gajar Ka Halwa is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that bring joy to every bite. With its rich ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking to explore the delightful world of Indian sweets. Indulge in this classic dessert and experience the warmth and comfort it offers, brought to you by IndianBreakfastRecipe.