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Gajar Halwa is a traditional Indian dessert that is made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom and nuts. It is a popular sweet dish, especially during festive occasions and winter months when fresh carrots are abundant.
To make Gajar Halwa, carrots are grated and cooked in a pan along with milk on low heat until they soften and the milk reduces to a thick consistency. Sugar is added to sweeten the mixture, and cardamom powder is added for a delightful aroma. Additionally, saffron strands can be used to enhance the flavor and give a vibrant orange hue to the halwa.
The halwa is garnished with fried nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios, as well as raisins for added texture and richness. The nuts are sautéed in ghee (clarified butter) until golden brown, which adds a delightful crunch to the dessert.
Gajar Halwa is typically served warm, allowing the flavors to meld together and creating a comforting and satisfying dessert. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable contrast of flavors. Its rich, sweet, and creamy taste makes it a beloved treat for people of all ages.
Whether it’s a festive celebration or a simple craving for something sweet, Gajar Halwa is a cherished dessert that brings joy and delight to anyone who tastes it.
Ingredients Of Gajar Halwa Recipe:
- 1 kg carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 4 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
Step By Step Instructions Of Gajar Halwa Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the carrots
- Wash the carrots thoroughly and peel them using a vegetable peeler.
- Grate the carrots using a grater or a food processor. Set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the carrots and milk
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee on medium heat.
- Add the grated carrots to the pan and sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in the milk and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the carrots in the milk, stirring occasionally, until the milk reduces and thickens. This process may take around 30 to 40 minutes.
Step 3: Add the sugar and flavorings
- Once the milk has reduced, add the sugar to the pan and mix well.
- Continue cooking the carrots on low heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens further.
- In a separate small bowl, soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk for a few minutes to release their flavor and color. Add this saffron milk to the carrot mixture.
- Add the cardamom powder and stir well to combine. The aroma of the cardamom will enhance the flavor of the halwa.
Step 4: Garnish and fry the nuts
- In a separate small pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee.
- Add the chopped nuts and raisins to the pan and sauté them until they turn golden brown. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
- Remove the nuts and raisins from the pan and set them aside.
Step 5: Final touches and serving
- By now, the carrots would have cooked completely and turned soft. The mixture should have a thick consistency.
- Add the fried nuts and raisins to the carrot mixture and mix well.
- Cook the halwa for another 5-10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Turn off the heat and let the halwa rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the warm Gajar Halwa in bowls or plates. It can be enjoyed as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
That’s it! You have successfully made Gajar Halwa. Enjoy this delicious and indulgent dessert with your loved ones.
