Delicious Gajar Ka Halwa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction to Gajar Ka Halwa

Gajar Ka Halwa, also known as Carrot Halwa, is a traditional Indian dessert that has captured the hearts of many. Its key ingredients, primarily grated carrots, coupled with rich flavors from milk and ghee, create a delightful sweet treat that is perfect for celebrations or a cozy family gathering.

Essential Ingredients for Gajar Ka Halwa

To prepare Gajar Ka Halwa for approximately 4 to 5 servings, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 kg of grated carrots (gajar)
• 1 liter of full cream milk
• ¾ cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons ghee
• 150 g khoya or mawa (optional but recommended for richness)
• 8 to 10 chopped cashew nuts
• 8 to 10 sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• ½ teaspoon green cardamom powder

Step-by-Step Method to Cook Gajar Ka Halwa

Now that you have gathered the necessary ingredients, let's walk through the steps to prepare this delectable halwa:

1. Grate the Carrots: Begin by washing, peeling, and finely grating the carrots. This will be the base of your dessert and will provide its distinctive flavor.
2. Cook Carrots in Milk: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan, popularly known as a kadhai. Add the grated carrots and pour in the full cream milk. Cook the mixture over medium flame while stirring occasionally. The goal is to reduce the milk until it thickens and majority of it is absorbed by the carrots, creating a rich base.
3. Add Sugar and Ghee: Once the milk is nearly absorbed, it’s time to sweeten the dish. Add sugar to the mixture, stirring well until it melts. Next, incorporate ghee into the halwa and continue to cook it until the ghee begins to separate from the halwa.
4. Enhance the Flavor: For the final touch, you may add khoya or mawa to enrich the taste further. Sprinkle in the green cardamom powder, and mix thoroughly. Fold in the chopped cashew nuts, sliced almonds, and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Your Gajar Ka Halwa is now complete! Serve it warm, garnished with additional nuts if desired. This sweet dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits from the fresh carrots and nuts. Enjoy this traditional Indian dessert with family and friends to indulge in a truly delightful experience!