Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe: A North Indian Delight
Gajar Ka Halwa, also known as carrot pudding, is a beloved North Indian dessert that embodies the warmth and richness of traditional Indian cuisine. This delightful dish, made from fresh grated carrots, is cooked slowly with milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy family dinner, Gajar Ka Halwa is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and inviting aroma. Here’s how to prepare this sumptuous dessert.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh carrots (grated) | 500 grams |
| Ghee (clarified butter) or butter | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Cardamom powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Almonds (chopped) | 10 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 290 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 20 g |
Preparation Time
| Duration | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 60 minutes |
| Total Time | 75 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 4 servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Grate the fresh carrots and keep them aside. Make sure to measure out the ghee, milk, sugar, cardamom powder, and chopped almonds.
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Cook the Carrots: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the grated carrots and sauté them. Cook the carrots until they soften and release their natural sweetness, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Add Milk: Once the carrots are soft, pour in the milk. Stir well and allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. The milk will reduce and thicken, creating a creamy texture for the halwa.
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Cook Until Evaporated: Continue cooking the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until most of the milk evaporates and the mixture becomes thick. This process usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
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Incorporate Sugar and Flavors: After the milk has reduced, add the sugar, cardamom powder, and chopped almonds. Stir continuously to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and mixes well with the carrot mixture. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Final Touch: Once the halwa reaches a desired consistency—thick and fudgy—remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes.
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Serve: Gajar Ka Halwa can be served warm or at room temperature. It is often garnished with additional chopped almonds or cashews for a touch of elegance. Serve this delectable dessert after your main meal, allowing your guests to savor its rich flavors.
Enjoying Gajar Ka Halwa
Gajar Ka Halwa is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, ideal for any occasion. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat, or enjoy it simply on its own. The sweet, aromatic flavors of this traditional dish will transport you to the heart of North India, making every bite a delightful experience.
Indulge in this timeless recipe and share it with your loved ones—because good food is best enjoyed together!
