Gajar ka Halwa, also known as Carrot Halwa, is a popular Indian dessert, especially enjoyed during the winter season. Here's a simple recipe for making delicious Gajar ka Halwa:\
Ingredients:
1 kg fresh carrots, grated
1 liter full-fat milk
1 cup sugar (adjust according to your taste)
1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
Grate the Carrots:
Wash and peel the carrots. Grate them using a fine grater.
Cook the Carrots:
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai.
Add the grated carrots and sauté them on medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until they become soft and the raw smell disappears.
Add Milk:
Pour in the milk and stir well.
Let the mixture simmer on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the carrots to cook in the milk until the milk reduces and thickens. This may take around 30-40 minutes.
Add Sugar:
Once the milk has reduced, add sugar and mix well.
Continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking to the bottom, until the halwa thickens and the ghee starts to separate from the mixture.
Add Ghee and Nuts:
Add the remaining ghee, chopped nuts, raisins, and cardamom powder. Mix well and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the halwa reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency.
Optional: Add Saffron:
If using saffron, soak a pinch of saffron strands in 1-2 tablespoons of warm milk for a few minutes. Add this saffron-infused milk to the halwa and mix well.
Garnish:
Garnish the Gajar ka Halwa with chopped pistachios.
Serve:
Your Gajar ka Halwa is ready to be served! You can serve it warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy this delightful winter dessert with your family and friends!
