Bengali Mohan Bhog (Sooji Ka Halwa) – Traditional Indian Sweet with Saffron and Cardamom

Bengali Style Mohan Bhog (Sooji Ka Halwa) – A Sweet Indian Dessert

Mohan Bhog, a traditional Bengali sweet dish, is a delightful version of the well-known Sooji Ka Halwa, infused with rich flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe combines the simple ingredients of semolina (sooji), ghee, sugar, and milk, along with the subtle fragrances of cardamom, saffron, and bay leaves, making it a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion or a relaxed Sunday lunch with loved ones. Often paired with Luchi (fried bread), Aloo Dum, and a fresh Moong Sprouts Salad with grated carrots and coriander, this dish is a celebration of Bengali culinary tradition.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Milk Mixture
   Begin by boiling the milk, water, sugar, saffron strands, and cardamom powder in a saucepan. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the saffron releases its beautiful golden color and aroma. Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low, keeping the milk mixture warm on the side.

2. Roast the Sooji (Semolina)
   In a wide, heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1/2 cup of ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is melted, add the semolina (sooji) and begin roasting it. Stir continuously to ensure the semolina is roasted evenly, allowing it to release a toasted aroma and turn a light golden color. Be careful not to over-roast or burn it—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the Milk Mixture
   Once the semolina is roasted to perfection, begin gradually adding the warm milk mixture to the semolina. Stir continuously to avoid any lumps and to ensure the semolina absorbs the milk mixture smoothly. Keep the heat medium to avoid splattering, as the liquid will bubble up as it is added.

4. Simmer the Halwa
   Continue stirring the mixture, allowing it to thicken as it cooks. The halwa will gradually come together, and the semolina will begin to absorb the milk, leaving the sides of the pan. Once the mixture thickens and begins to separate from the sides of the pan, cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for another 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

5. Rest the Halwa
   Once the halwa is cooked, and it starts to pull away from the pan, turn off the heat. Let the pan rest with the lid on for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Prepare the Toppings
   In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add the cashew nuts and raisins and roast them until the cashews turn golden brown. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.

7. Finish the Mohan Bhog
   Once the cashews and raisins are roasted, add them to the prepared Bengali Mohan Bhog (Sooji Ka Halwa) and stir gently to combine.

8. Serve and Enjoy
   Your Bengali-style Mohan Bhog (Sooji Ka Halwa) is now ready to serve! It pairs wonderfully with traditional accompaniments like Luchi (fried bread), Aloo Dum (spicy potato curry), and a refreshing Moong Sprouts Salad with grated carrots and coriander for a complete Bengali feast.

Tips and Variations

• Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of sugar in this recipe can be adjusted to your personal preference. Some may prefer a slightly less sweet dessert, while others may like it a bit sweeter.
• Flavoring with Nuts: You can also experiment with adding almonds, pistachios, or even dried coconut for additional texture and flavor.
• Saffron Substitutes: While saffron gives the halwa a beautiful color and aroma, you can skip it or use a pinch of turmeric powder as a substitute if you’re unable to find saffron.
• Serving Suggestions: For a more festive presentation, garnish the dish with edible rose petals, a sprinkle of cardamom powder, or a few slivers of golden fried cashew nuts and raisins.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Mohan Bhog is a beloved dessert in Bengali households, particularly during festive occasions or family gatherings. Its rich, velvety texture and the perfect balance of sweetness make it an irresistible treat for all ages. Give this easy-to-make recipe a try, and experience the warmth and comfort of Bengali home-cooked sweetness at its finest!