Gajar ka Halwa Recipe
Gajar ka Halwa, also known as Carrot Halwa, is a classic Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. This rich and flavorful sweet dish is especially popular during winters and festivals like Diwali and Holi. Its aromatic flavors and vibrant colors make it a favorite across households. Here’s a detailed recipe for preparing Gajar ka Halwa at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh carrots (preferably red or desi variety): 1 kg
- Full-cream milk: 1 liter
- Sugar: 150–200 grams (adjust according to taste)
- Ghee (clarified butter): 3–4 tablespoons
Flavor Enhancers
- Cardamom powder: 1 teaspoon
- Saffron strands (optional): A pinch soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
Garnishing
- Chopped almonds: 2 tablespoons
- Chopped cashews: 2 tablespoons
- Raisins: 1 tablespoon
- Pistachios (optional): 1 tablespoon
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Carrots
- Wash the carrots thoroughly to remove dirt.
- Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler.
- Grate the carrots finely using a manual grater or a food processor. Finely grated carrots cook faster and yield a smoother halwa.
2. Cooking the Carrots in Milk
- Take a large, heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai.
- Heat the pan and add the grated carrots. Sauté them on medium heat for about 5 minutes to release their natural aroma.
- Pour the full-cream milk into the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Let the carrots absorb the milk, which takes about 30–40 minutes. Stir more frequently as the milk reduces, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
3. Adding Sugar and Ghee
- Once most of the milk has evaporated, add sugar to the mixture. The sugar will release moisture, making the halwa slightly liquidy again.
- Stir continuously and cook until the moisture evaporates.
- Add ghee at this stage. Mix well to ensure the halwa develops a glossy texture and rich flavor. Continue cooking for 10–15 minutes on low heat, allowing the ghee to blend in.
4. Enhancing the Flavor
- Add cardamom powder to the halwa for a fragrant touch.
- If using saffron, add the soaked strands along with the milk at this stage. It adds a beautiful golden hue and a delicate aroma to the dessert.
5. Roasting the Dry Fruits
- In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee.
- Add almonds, cashews, and raisins. Roast them until they turn golden and aromatic.
- Add the roasted dry fruits to the halwa and mix well.
Serving Suggestions
- Gajar ka Halwa tastes best when served warm. You can also enjoy it chilled, depending on your preference.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios or more dry fruits for an elegant touch.
- Serve it as a dessert after a festive meal or enjoy it as a standalone treat with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Perfect Gajar ka Halwa
- Choose Fresh Carrots: Always use fresh, juicy carrots for the best flavor. Red carrots, commonly available in winters, are ideal for this recipe.
- Use Full-Cream Milk: Full-cream milk enhances the richness and creaminess of the halwa. Avoid using skimmed milk.
- Cook on Low Heat: Patience is key when preparing Gajar ka Halwa. Slow cooking allows the carrots to absorb the milk and develop a deep flavor.
- Avoid Shortcuts: While some recipes use condensed milk for faster cooking, traditional halwa is made by reducing milk for an authentic taste.
- Ghee is Essential: Don’t skimp on ghee—it adds a rich aroma and flavor to the dish.
- Adjust Sugar: Taste the halwa before adding sugar, as some carrot varieties are naturally sweeter than others.
Health Benefits
Though indulgent, Gajar ka Halwa offers several health benefits:
- Rich in Nutrients: Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Good for Eyesight: Carrots’ high vitamin A content supports eye health.
- Energy-Boosting: Ghee provides healthy fats, while nuts add protein and energy.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover Gajar ka Halwa in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
- Reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop before serving. Add a splash of milk while reheating to retain its moisture.
Gajar ka Halwa is not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of winter, family gatherings, and festive indulgence. With its creamy texture, rich aroma, and delightful sweetness, it’s sure to win hearts and bring warmth to any occasion. Prepare it with love, and enjoy this timeless Indian treat!