Gajar ka Halwa

Gajar ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa) is a classic Indian delicious made of grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. It’s rich, creamy, and aromatic, making it ideal for festive celebrations or as a comforting treat. Here’s an easy recipe for Gajar ka Halwa.

Ingredients:

• • • 1 kilogram grated carrots
    • 500 ml full-fat milk.
    • Sugar: 200-250 grams (modify according to your sweetness preference)
    • Ghee (clarified butter) – 3-4 tablespoons.
    • Cardamom powder – 1/2 teaspoon.
    • Cashews – 10-12, chopped
    • Almonds – 10-12 (chopped)
    • Raisins – 10-12 (optional)
    • Saffron strands – a pinch (optional)
    • Pistachios – 8-10 (chopped, optional for garnish)

Instructions of Gajar Ka Halwa:

1. Prepare the Carrots:
   • Peel and grate the carrots finely. This will speed up the cooking process and improve the carrots’ ability to absorb milk.
2. Cook the Carrots:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed frying pan, cook the chopped carrots over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring periodically, until they begin to soften.
3. Add Milk:
   • Pour 500 mL of milk into the pan including the carrots. Let it simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to stop the milk from sticking to the bottom.
   • Allow the milk to decrease while the carrots soup in it for around 20-25 minutes. The carrots will gently absorb the milk.
4. Sweeten and Flavor:
   • Once the milk has decreased, add the sugar (200-250 grams) and combine thoroughly. The halwa will start to release some liquid again. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and the liquid has evaporated.
   • Add cardamom powder and optional saffron strands for scent and flavor.
   • 
5. Add Ghee and Nuts:
   • Finally, add 3-4 tablespoons of ghee to the mixture. This will give the halwa a rich texture and flavour.
   • In a small pan, heat some ghee and cook the cashews, almonds, and raisins (optional) until golden brown. Mix the fried nuts into the halwa.
6. Serve:
   • Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the halwa thickens and becomes more cohesive.
   • Gajar Ka Halwa is finished when it acquires a pudding-like consistency and the ghee separates.
   • Before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios or any other nuts you want.
   • Serve hot or warm, topped with more nuts if desired.