Carrot Halwa – Gajar Ka Halwa
Traditional North Indian Dessert
Description:
Gajar Ka Halwa, a quintessential dessert from North India, is a comforting and rich pudding made with fresh, sweet carrots, milk, and ghee. This dish is particularly popular during the winter months, and it often makes an appearance during festive celebrations. The use of red carrots, which are sweeter and juicier than the regular varieties, lends a special flavor to this dish. Khoya and dry fruits are typically added to enrich the taste, making it a luxurious treat. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or hosting a celebration, Gajar Ka Halwa is a delicious and heartfelt way to end your meal.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrot (grated) | 500 grams |
| Ghee or Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Cardamom Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Almonds (grated and chopped) | 10 pieces |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Quantity (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 35 grams |
| Sugars | 30 grams |
| Fat | 14 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
Instructions
-
Prep the Ingredients:
Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling the carrots. Grate them finely and set them aside. Measure out the ghee, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder, and chop the almonds into small pieces. -
Cook the Carrots:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the grated carrots and sauté them for a few minutes until they begin to soften and release their natural sweetness. -
Add Milk:
Next, pour the milk into the pan with the carrots. Stir the mixture to combine, and bring it to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the milk to simmer, stirring occasionally. Let the milk cook down and reduce, which will take about 30-40 minutes. -
Add Sugar, Cardamom, and Almonds:
Once most of the milk has evaporated and the mixture is thickened, add the sugar, cardamom powder, and chopped almonds. Stir the mixture continuously, ensuring the sugar dissolves evenly and the flavors meld together. -
Cook Until Dry:
Continue cooking the mixture on low heat, stirring regularly, until the halwa reaches a pudding-like consistency and the milk is completely absorbed. This will take around 10-15 minutes. The gajar ka halwa should have a slightly moist but thick texture. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the halwa is done, turn off the heat. Let it cool slightly before serving. This dessert is traditionally enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature. Garnish with extra almonds, if desired, and serve it as a sweet finale to your meal.
Pro Tip:
For an even richer version, you can add a little khoya (reduced milk solids) towards the end of cooking. It will elevate the texture and flavor, making the Gajar Ka Halwa even more indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
Gajar Ka Halwa is best enjoyed as a dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs wonderfully with Indian breads like naan or puri and complements spicier curries or lentils. If you’re looking to serve it at a special occasion or festive gathering, this dessert can also be a lovely offering for guests.
Gajar Ka Halwa is a delightful, rich dessert that perfectly balances the earthy sweetness of carrots with the creamy goodness of milk and ghee. Its preparation may take time, but the result is undoubtedly worth the effort. So go ahead, indulge in this traditional North Indian treat and experience the warmth and love it brings to your table!
