Kerala Style Rice Halwa Recipe
Cuisine: Kerala Recipes
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Kerala Style Rice Halwa is a traditional delicacy, often prepared during festive occasions and special gatherings. This beloved treat, passed down through generations, holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially those familiar with the rich flavors of Kerala. The essence of this dish lies in its simplicity and the beauty of its ingredients: rice flour, jaggery, coconut milk, and ghee. The halwa’s signature dark color is influenced by the type of jaggery used, with dark jaggery lending it a deeper hue and richer flavor. This recipe, handed down by my grandmother, brings out the true essence of Kerala’s culinary tradition and is perfect for any occasion where you wish to indulge in a sweet, aromatic dessert.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice flour | 1 cup |
| Jaggery (grated) | 2 cups |
| Coconut milk (thick) | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk (thin) | 3 cups |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts | A few (for roasting) |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
-
Roast Cashews:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add broken cashew nuts and fry them gently until they begin to turn golden. Once roasted, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate. The cashews will lend a lovely crunch and richness to the final dish. -
Prepare Coconut Milk:
Next, extract thick and thin coconut milk from fresh coconuts or use canned coconut milk, ensuring they are stored in separate bowls. The thin coconut milk provides a base for the cooking process, while the thick coconut milk adds a creamy texture to the halwa. -
Melt Jaggery:
In a large, thick-bottomed pan (or an uruli, if available), combine the grated jaggery and thin coconut milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the jaggery has completely melted into the milk. Once melted, strain the mixture to remove any impurities that may have remained in the jaggery. -
Add Rice Flour:
After cleaning the pan, return the strained jaggery mixture to it. Gradually add the rice flour, a little at a time, stirring continuously to ensure no lumps form. It is essential to mix the rice flour thoroughly to avoid any clumps and to maintain a smooth texture. -
Cook the Mixture:
Continue cooking the mixture on medium flame while stirring frequently. The consistency will start to thicken as the rice flour absorbs the liquid. Ensure that the mixture doesnโt stick to the bottom of the pan by stirring constantly. As it thickens, reduce the flame to low. -
Incorporate Thick Coconut Milk:
Once the mixture has thickened, add the thick coconut milk and stir well to incorporate it smoothly into the halwa. Keep stirring continuously as the mixture begins to thicken further. This process will create a rich and creamy texture. -
Add Ghee and Cashews:
As the mixture reaches a thicker consistency, add 1 tablespoon of ghee and continue stirring. This will give the halwa a glossy finish and enhance the flavor. If at any point the mixture starts sticking to the sides of the pan, gently scrape it off and add a little more ghee to the edges. Continue cooking for an additional 30 to 35 minutes until the halwa releases from the sides of the pan and reaches a firm consistency. -
Final Touches:
Once the halwa has thickened to the desired consistency, and it starts to come away from the sides of the pan, fold in the roasted cashew nuts. The addition of these cashews at this stage ensures that their rich flavor is absorbed into the halwa. -
Cool and Serve:
Transfer the halwa to a greased plate or dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool to room temperature, during which time it will firm up further. Once cooled, cut the halwa into squares or diamond shapes for serving.
This Kerala Style Rice Halwa is now ready to be enjoyed, offering a delightful combination of sweetness, richness, and a hint of cardamom. Perfect for any festive gathering or as a treat for your loved ones, this halwa brings a piece of Keralaโs rich culinary history to your table.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this delicious dessert as a sweet ending to a meal, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea. The halwa’s flavors only improve with time, making it a great make-ahead treat for special occasions. Enjoy!
