How to Make Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Indian Dessert

 

Gajar ka Halwa, also known as carrot halwa, is a popular Indian dessert that is loved for its rich taste and vibrant orange color. Made with fresh carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, this dish is a comforting and indulgent treat, perfect for festivals or special occasions. If you're wondering how to make Gajar ka Halwa recipe, you're in the right place! In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dessert in the easiest way possible.

Ingredients for Gajar Ka Halwa

Before diving into the recipe, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make Gajar ka Halwa:

• 4-5 medium-sized carrots (grated)
• 1 cup full-fat milk
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, and pistachios)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron (optional)
• 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)

These ingredients are simple and easily available in most kitchens, making Gajar ka Halwa a dish that anyone can prepare at home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gajar Ka Halwa

Step 1: Grate the Carrots

To start the Gajar ka Halwa recipe, wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. After peeling, grate them finely or coarsely, depending on your texture preference. Grating the carrots helps them cook faster and absorb the flavors of milk and ghee.

Step 2: Cook the Grated Carrots

Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or wok and add the grated carrots to it. Sauté the carrots on medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften a little. This step ensures that the raw flavor of the carrots is cooked out and prepares them to absorb the sweetness of the milk and sugar.

Step 3: Add Milk

Once the carrots are sautéed, add the full-fat milk to the pan. Mix the carrots and milk well, and let the mixture simmer on low heat. Continue stirring every 5 minutes to avoid any milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Allow the milk to reduce and thicken while the carrots absorb all the rich flavors of the milk.

Step 4: Add Sugar

After the milk has reduced, add sugar to the mixture and stir well. The sugar will dissolve in the milk and start creating a rich, creamy texture. Continue to cook the mixture on low heat until the consistency is thick and pudding-like. This process can take about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Add Ghee, Cardamom, and Nuts

Now, it’s time to add the ghee (clarified butter), which will bring out a rich flavor and smooth texture. Mix in the cardamom powder for that warm, aromatic fragrance that is characteristic of traditional Gajar ka Halwa. You can also add saffron strands at this stage for a beautiful color and flavor, although it’s optional. Stir in the chopped nuts and raisins to give the dish a crunchy and sweet texture. Keep cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the gajar ka halwa is soft and all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Gajar ka Halwa is now ready! Turn off the heat, and serve it hot or warm, garnished with extra chopped nuts for an extra touch of elegance. It can be enjoyed as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack at any time of the day.

Tips for Perfect Gajar Ka Halwa

• Carrots: Use fresh, tender, and juicy carrots for the best flavor. The sweeter the carrots, the better your halwa will taste.
• Milk: Full-fat milk is essential for a creamy texture. Avoid using low-fat milk as it may not give the rich taste you're aiming for.
• Consistency: Gajar ka Halwa can be made either thick or a little runny, depending on your preference. If you like a thicker halwa, cook it longer to reduce the milk completely.
• Nuts: Adding a variety of nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios, enhances the taste and texture. You can roast them in a little ghee before adding them for extra crunch.

Conclusion

Making Gajar ka Halwa is easier than it seems, and with the right ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and aromatic dessert that will be the star of any meal. Whether it's a special celebration or a casual family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

At bestrecipesofindia, we believe that the best recipes bring people together, and Gajar ka Halwa is a perfect example of that. With our simple and authentic how to make Gajar ka Halwa recipe, you can now enjoy this delightful dessert at home. Try it today and treat your loved ones to this irresistible Indian delicacy