How to Make Gajar Halwa: A Perfect Winter Delight

Winter  brings the charm of warm blankets, warm beverages, and comfort foods. Among the many dishes that make winter special, Gajar Halwa, also known as carrot pudding, stands out as a favourite in Indian households. This rich and aromatic dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms your heart on chilly evenings. In this blog, we’ll dive into a simple, step-by-step recipe for Gajar Halwa, along with some expert tips and health benefits of this winter treat.

Why Gajar Halwa is a Winter Essential lets see how to make gajar halwa

 

Gajar Halwa is traditionally prepared using red carrots, which are abundant during the winter months. These carrots are naturally sweeter, more flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making them ideal for this dessert. The combination of grated carrots, milk, sugar, ghee, and nuts creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious.

Ingredients for Gajar Halwa

To make this classic dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 kg red carrots (grated)

  • 1 liter full-cream milk

  • 1 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)

  • 4-5 tablespoons ghee

  • 8-10 cashews (chopped)

  • 8-10 almonds (slivered)

  • 8-10 pistachios (optional)

  • 4-5 cardamom pods (crushed or powdered)

  • A pinch of saffron strands (soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk, optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Gajar Halwa in winters

Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Carrots 

The first step in making gajar halwa is to choose the right carrots. Opt for fresh, tender red carrots as they’re naturally sweet and cook faster.

  1. Wash the carrots thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.

  2. Peel the carrots and grate them finely using a hand grater or food processor. Finely grated carrots cook evenly and absorb flavors better.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots in Milk 

  1. Take a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai and add the grated carrots.

  2. Pour the milk over the carrots and bring it to a boil.

  3. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the pan.

  4. Cook until the milk reduces and is absorbed by the carrots. This step may take around 20-30 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Ghee 

  1. Once the milk is absorbed, add sugar to the mixture. The sugar will release some moisture, making the halwa slightly watery.

  2. Continue to cook on medium flame until the moisture evaporates and the mixture thickens.

  3. Add ghee and mix well. Cook for another 10 minutes while stirring continuously. The ghee will enhance the flavor and give the halwa a glossy texture.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Garnish 

  1. Sprinkle cardamom powder and mix well for that classic aroma.

  2. Add chopped nuts and raisins. Stir to combine.

  3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes and turn off the heat.

  4. Serve warm, garnished with more nuts on top.

 

"Delicious gajar halwa served in a bowl, garnished with chopped nuts, showcasing its vibrant orange color and rich texture, perfect for enjoying during the winter season."

Tips for Making the Perfect Gajar Halwa in winters

  1. Choose the Right Carrots: Red carrots are preferred for their natural sweetness and vibrant color.

  2. Full-Cream Milk is Key: For a creamy texture, always use full-cream milk instead of skimmed milk.

  3. Patience Pays Off: Slow cooking is essential to bring out the natural flavors of the carrots and milk.

  4. Don’t Skip Ghee: While it’s tempting to reduce ghee for health reasons, it’s the key ingredient that adds depth and richness to the halwa.

  5. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the halwa midway and adjust the sugar if needed. Carrots’ sweetness can vary.

  6. Enhance with Saffron: Though optional, saffron adds a luxurious touch to your halwa.

  7. Use a Non-Stick Pan: This prevents the halwa from sticking and makes stirring easier.

Health Benefits of eating Gajar Halwa in wintes
While Gajar Halwa is a dessert, it does offer several health benefits, thanks to its wholesome ingredients:
  1. Rich in Vitamin A: Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which promotes good vision and skin health.
  2. Boosts Immunity: The nuts and milk provide essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and healthy fats, which strengthen immunity.
  3. Energy Booster: Ghee and sugar make it a quick source of energy, especially in cold weather.
  4. Improves Digestion: Ghee helps improve digestion and adds a warming effect to the body.
  5. Promotes Heart Health: Almonds, pistachios, and cashews are great for heart health due to their healthy fat content.
Serving Suggestions

  • Serve Gajar Halwa warm as a dessert after meals.

  • Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fusion twist.

  • Garnish with extra nuts or silver leaf for festive occasions.

Storage Tips  

  1. Refrigeration: Store Gajar Halwa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  2. Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on a stovetop with a splash of milk to restore its texture.