Carrot Halwa, also known as 'Gajar ka Halwa,' is a traditional Indian dessert that is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, especially during the colder months. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this simple recipe will guide you to create the perfect Carrot Halwa at home.
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Start by washing and peeling the carrots. Grate them finely using a hand grater or a food processor.
In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the grated carrots and milk. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. Let the mixture cook until the milk evaporates, and the carrots become soft.
Once the milk has evaporated, add ghee to the mixture and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the carrots release a lovely aroma.
Add sugar and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the halwa thickens.
If using khoya, crumble it into the mixture and stir well. Add chopped nuts and cardamom powder, and mix until everything is well combined. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Transfer the Carrot Halwa to a serving dish and garnish with more nuts and saffron strands. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Use fresh, juicy carrots for the best flavor. The sweeter the carrots, the less sugar you’ll need.
Be patient during the milk evaporation process. This step is crucial for the halwa’s rich and creamy texture.
Don’t skimp on ghee, as it enhances the flavor and gives the halwa its characteristic richness.
Adding khoya is optional, but it adds extra richness and creaminess to the halwa.
Store leftover halwa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat before serving.
What is the best way to store leftover Carrot Halwa?
To store leftover Carrot Halwa, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Can I make Carrot Halwa vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of Carrot Halwa by substituting full-cream milk with almond milk or coconut milk and using coconut oil instead of ghee. You can also skip the khoya or use a plant-based alternative.
What can I substitute for khoya in Carrot Halwa?
If you don't have khoya, you can substitute it with condensed milk for added sweetness and creaminess. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of milk powder and cream to achieve a similar texture.
What nuts pair well with Carrot Halwa?
Chopped almonds, cashews, and pistachios are traditional choices that pair beautifully with Carrot Halwa. You can also experiment with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
How long does it take to cook Carrot Halwa from start to finish?
The total time to cook Carrot Halwa can vary, but generally, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This includes preparation time for grating the carrots and the cooking time for the milk to evaporate and the halwa to thicken.
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