Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe

Indian · Dessert · 60 min total

A classic Indian dessert made from grated carrots slow-cooked in milk, ghee, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. This recipe yields a rich, aromatic halwa perfect for festive occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 kg carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 liter full-fat milk
• 1/2 cup ghee
• 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
• 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and sauté for 5 minutes until they soften slightly.
2. Pour in the milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the milk is mostly absorbed and the carrots are tender, about 30-35 minutes.
3. Add the remaining ghee and sugar. Stir well and continue cooking on low heat until the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Stir in the cardamom powder, almonds, cashews, and raisins. Cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped pistachios. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use khoya (reduced milk solids) instead of some of the milk.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar.

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