Beetroot Halwa Recipe
Beetroot Halwa is a sumptuous North Indian dessert with a unique, fudge-like texture and an irresistible flavor. Prepared from fresh, grated beetroot cooked in creamy milk and spiced with aromatic cardamom, this vibrant dessert is both nutritious and indulgent. Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants, Beetroot Halwa is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a boost for your cardiovascular health. Perfect for festive occasions or as a simple after-meal delight, this dish will captivate everyone with its stunning color and delicate sweetness.
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beetroot (grated) | 2 cups | Fresh, firm beetroot for optimal taste and color |
| Milk | 1 cup | Full-fat milk recommended for richness, but low-fat can be used |
| Sugar | 1 ½ cups | Adjust sweetness to your taste |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground for best aroma |
| Pistachios (sliced) | 1 tablespoon | Use unsalted pistachios for garnish |
| Cashew Nuts (broken) | 1 tablespoon | Adds a delightful crunch |
| Ghee | ¼ cup | Traditional Indian clarified butter for flavor and richness |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 | 16% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 15% |
| Fat | 12g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 35g | – |
| Calcium | 80mg | 8% |
| Iron | 1.2mg | 7% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Preparation Time
| Task | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Instructions
-
Roast the Cashew Nuts
- Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add the broken cashew nuts and roast until they turn golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
-
Prepare the Beetroot
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the remaining ghee over medium heat.
- Add the grated beetroot and sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing the natural aroma to develop.
-
Cook with Milk
- Pour the milk into the pan with the sautéed beetroot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer and let the beetroot cook slowly until all the milk is absorbed and evaporated. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Sweeten the Halwa
- Once the liquid is fully condensed, add the sugar to the beetroot mixture.
- Stir continuously, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely and blends evenly with the beetroot.
-
Finish with Spices and Nuts
- Sprinkle in the cardamom powder for a burst of flavor.
- Add the roasted cashew nuts and sliced pistachios. Stir everything together over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, ensuring even distribution of the ingredients.
-
Serve the Halwa
- Turn off the heat and allow the halwa to rest for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional pistachios or cashew nuts, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Beetroot Halwa can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat, or enjoy it as is for a guilt-free dessert. This halwa also makes a perfect addition to festive spreads or family celebrations, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
Tips for the Perfect Beetroot Halwa
- Use fresh and firm beets to ensure the halwa’s vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- Grate the beetroot finely for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- For added richness, you can substitute part of the milk with condensed milk or cream.
- Adjust the sugar quantity to suit your preference, as some beet varieties may be naturally sweeter.
Delight your family and friends with this stunning Beetroot Halwa recipe and enjoy its blend of health and taste, prepared with love.
