Dry Fruit Halwa Recipe
Introduction:
Dry Fruit Halwa, a delightful dessert brimming with the richness of dates, figs, and various nuts, is a nourishing and indulgent treat. Known for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and natural sweetness, this halwa is perfect for festive occasions, after meals, or as a sweet snack. Its preparation involves blending the best of dry fruits and nuts into a comforting, ghee-infused dessert that is both nutritious and delicious.
This recipe is incredibly simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for those who crave a quick yet impressive homemade dessert.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (without seeds) | 1 cup |
| Dried Figs | 1 cup |
| Pistachios (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Cashews (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Almonds (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Walnuts (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 1 tbsp |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Nuts:
Begin by placing all the nuts (pistachios, cashews, almonds, and walnuts) in a blender. Pulse them lightly so that they are coarsely chopped, but make sure not to grind them into a powder. Set aside for later. -
Blend Dates and Figs:
Next, take the dates and dried figs. In a blender, combine them with the milk and ghee, and blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. You can adjust the texture according to your preference, but the mixture should remain thick and slightly sticky. Set this blend aside as well. -
Cook the Halwa:
Heat a pan or kadhai on medium flame and add the coarsely chopped nuts to it. Stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they start to release a nutty aroma. Add the dates and fig mixture to the pan and continue to cook on a low flame for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Cool and Set the Halwa:
Once the mixture is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool down slightly. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can transfer the halwa to a greased plate or tray and smooth the surface. Let it sit for 2-3 hours so that it sets like a fudge or barfi. Once cooled, you can slice it into squares for easy serving. -
Serving Suggestions:
Dry Fruit Halwa can be served as a sweet dish after meals, or as a snack with chai. It pairs wonderfully with Indian flatbreads like Aloo Rasawala, Ajwain Puri, and Boondi Raita, making for a satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Dry Fruit Halwa:
- Adjust the sweetness: If you like your halwa sweeter, feel free to add a little jaggery or honey to the mixture. Dates and figs already add natural sweetness, so it’s important to taste before adding extra sweeteners.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the nuts a bit more finely, or use a food processor instead of a blender.
- Flavoring: For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or saffron to the halwa for an aromatic flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35 g |
| Protein | 5-6 g |
| Fat | 15-20 g |
| Fiber | 4-5 g |
| Sugars | 20-25 g |
Conclusion:
Dry Fruit Halwa is a delicious dessert that brings together the wholesome goodness of dry fruits and nuts. With its rich flavor and nutrient-packed ingredients, it’s a perfect sweet treat to indulge in, especially after meals or during festive times. Simple to make and delightful to eat, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone craving for more!
Would you like to explore more Indian dessert recipes or need variations of this one? Let me know!
