Wheat Pudding Recipe – Gehun Ka Halwa (A Traditional Gujarati Dessert)
This warm and indulgent wheat pudding, known as Gehun Ka Halwa in Hindi, is a classic Gujarati dessert that brings together the rich flavors of wheat flour, ghee, and sugar, infused with the sweet aroma of cardamom and the crunch of cashews. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat to end a meal. With its delightful texture and aromatic essence, Gehun Ka Halwa is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wheat Flour (गेहूं का आटा) | 1 cup | Freshly ground for best results. |
| Sugar (शक्कर) | 1 cup | Adjust to taste if you prefer more or less sweetness. |
| Ghee (घी) | 1 tablespoon | Pure clarified butter for a rich flavor. |
| Water (पानी) | 3 cups | To dissolve the sugar and cook the halwa. |
| Cardamom Powder (इलाइची पाउडर) | 2 teaspoons | Ground cardamom for fragrance. |
| Cashews (काजू) | 1/4 cup | Halved for crunch. |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
Servings
| Serving Size | Number of Servings |
|---|---|
| Serves 4 | 4 servings |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sugar Water:
Begin by heating 3 cups of water in a saucepan. Once the water heats up, add the sugar and stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves. Afterward, lower the heat and let it simmer for another 2 minutes to ensure the syrup thickens slightly. -
Roast the Wheat Flour:
In a separate pan (kadhai), add the ghee and heat it on a medium flame. Once the ghee is hot, add the wheat flour. On a low flame, roast the flour, stirring continuously. Keep roasting until the flour turns a light golden brown. This should take about 5 minutes. As you stir, the flour should become slightly coarse in texture, which is an indication that it is ready for the next step. -
Add Cardamom Powder:
Once the wheat flour is roasted, reduce the heat to low and add the cardamom powder. Stir well to combine the aromatic cardamom with the wheat flour, releasing a wonderful fragrance. -
Combine with Sugar Syrup:
Slowly add the prepared sugar water to the flour mixture, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue stirring and cooking the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and come together as a smooth, creamy pudding. Once it reaches your desired consistency, turn off the gas and let it sit for about 5 minutes, covered. -
Prepare the Cashew Topping:
While the halwa is resting, heat a small tempering pan with a little ghee. Add the halved cashews and fry them until they turn golden brown. Once done, turn off the flame and add the fried cashews to the wheat pudding. Stir well to distribute the cashews evenly throughout the halwa. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious Gehun Ka Halwa is now ready! Serve it hot, preferably after dinner, as a sweet treat to finish your meal. This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of warm milk or a refreshing drink.
Tips & Variations
- Vegan Variation: You can replace ghee with coconut oil or any other vegetable oil if you prefer a vegan version of this dessert.
- Nuts & Dry Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or pistachios. You can also add golden raisins for a burst of sweetness.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a few saffron strands to the sugar water for a royal touch or a few tablespoons of rose water for an extra layer of fragrance.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~35 g |
| Protein | ~4 g |
| Fat | ~14 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugar | ~25 g |
| Sodium | ~10 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient variations and serving size.)
Gehun Ka Halwa is not only a traditional Gujarati dessert but also a delightful dish to share with family and friends. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a perfect option for any occasion, from festive celebrations to a cozy homemade dinner. Enjoy this rich and fragrant pudding as a sweet finale to your meal, and relish the warmth and nostalgia it brings.
