Wheat Halwa (Sheera)
Delightful Gujarati Dessert to Savor
Wheat halwa, also known as “sheera,” is a comforting and aromatic dessert made from whole wheat flour, ghee, sugar, and a touch of cardamom. A popular choice for festivals and religious offerings (prasad), this dish is rich in flavor and offers a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. The warm, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it a perfect dessert for winter months, bringing warmth to your soul. Whether you enjoy it as a special treat or serve it during celebrations, this wheat pudding is sure to delight!
Ingredients for Wheat Halwa
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wheat flour | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 1 cup |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Cardamom powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Cashews (halved) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 25g |
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 45 minutes
Instructions to Make Wheat Halwa
-
Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- Begin by heating water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 more minutes, ensuring the sugar has fully melted into the water.
-
Fry the Wheat Flour:
- In a separate pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the wheat flour and begin frying it. Stir constantly, ensuring that the flour doesn’t burn. Fry it for about 5 minutes or until it turns a light golden brown. The mixture will also become a little coarse in texture.
-
Add Cardamom and Sugar Syrup:
- Once the wheat flour is nicely roasted, reduce the heat and sprinkle in the ground cardamom powder, giving it a quick stir to infuse the flavor. Slowly pour the prepared sugar syrup into the flour mixture while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps.
-
Simmer the Halwa:
- Let the mixture cook for 10 to 15 minutes on low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. Once the mixture thickens and all the water is absorbed, turn off the heat. Let the halwa rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Prepare the Cashews Tadka:
- In a small tadka pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee. Add the halved cashew nuts and fry them until golden brown and fragrant. Once done, remove them from the heat.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Gently stir the cashew nuts into the halwa. The crunchy cashews will add an extra layer of texture and flavor to this rich dessert. Serve the wheat halwa hot as a delicious after-dinner treat.
Serving Suggestion
Wheat halwa is best enjoyed while itβs still warm, served as a comforting dessert after dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot chai or can be relished as a festive offering to God during religious occasions.
Indulge in the rich flavors and enjoy the nostalgic warmth of this classic Gujarati dessert. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy winter evening, Wheat Halwa is a perfect choice for any sweet tooth!
