Corn Halwa Recipe – Makki Ka Halwa

Discover the delightful taste of Corn Halwa, or Makki Ka Halwa, a traditional Indian dessert that transforms sweet corn into a rich, indulgent treat, perfect for concluding any meal on a sweet note. This recipe, which serves four, blends the natural sweetness of corn with the creaminess of milk and the aromatic essence of cardamom, creating a heavenly dessert that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Preparation Time

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

To begin crafting this delightful Corn Halwa, start by boiling or pressure cooking the sweet corn in 2 tablespoons of water for approximately 2 whistles. Once cooked, allow the corn to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Create the Corn Paste

Once cooled, transfer the cooked corn kernels into a mixer. Grind the kernels into a coarse paste, adding a splash of water as needed to achieve a smooth consistency. This paste will serve as the base of your halwa, contributing to its creamy texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Corn Paste

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium flame. Once the ghee is hot, add the corn paste to the pan. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes or until the color transitions to a lovely golden hue. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the corn and sets the stage for the sweet elements to follow.

Step 4: Combine Milk and Sugar

After the corn paste has sautéed, add in the milk, sugar, saffron strands, and the seeds from the crushed cardamom pods. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are combined. Continue to cook the Corn Halwa over medium heat until it thickens slightly, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 5: Final Cooking

Next, incorporate the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee into the halwa. Cook while stirring continuously until the ghee is fully absorbed and the halwa begins to leave the sides of the pan, which will take about 6 to 8 minutes. The goal here is to achieve a luscious consistency that is rich and fragrant.

Step 6: Prepare the Cashew Garnish

While the halwa is finishing up, prepare a tadka (tempering) in a small pan. Heat a bit of ghee and add the whole cashews. Fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your halwa.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the halwa is ready, transfer it to a serving dish and top with the fried cashews and the ghee they were cooked in. Your Corn Halwa is now ready to be served! This delightful dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple meal of Palak Dal, Sev Tamatar Ki Sabzi, and Phulka for a comforting weekday dinner.

Conclusion

Corn Halwa, or Makki Ka Halwa, is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful way to enjoy the sweetness of corn in a dessert form. Its creamy texture and aromatic flavors make it a perfect ending to any meal, and the process of preparing it can fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma, drawing everyone to the table in anticipation. Enjoy this recipe, and delight in the joy of cooking and sharing a traditional Indian dessert with your loved ones!