Gajar Ka Halwa - The Winter Delight From North India

The Allure of Gajar Ka Halwa

Gajar ka Halwa, also known as carrot pudding, is a traditional North Indian dessert made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. It is often garnished with nuts and flavored with cardamom and saffron. This dessert is particularly popular during the winter months when red carrots are in season.

Preparation Time and Ingredients

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 7 minutes
• Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 3 medium red carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup full-fat milk
• 4 tbsp castor sugar
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron, mixed in a little milk
• 2 tsp cream
• 1 tsp ghee
• Finely sliced almonds and pistachios

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Heat the Pan: Start by heating a pan and adding 1 tsp of ghee.
2. Add Carrots: Once the ghee melts, add the grated carrots and sauté for 2-3 minutes on low flame.
3. Add Milk: Pour in 1/4 cup of full-fat milk and let it cook until the milk evaporates.
4. Add Sugar: Mix in 4 tbsp of castor sugar and stir until the sugar melts.
5. Add Cream and Saffron: Add 2 tsp of cream and the saffron mixed in milk. Stir well.
6. Add Cardamom: Sprinkle 1/4 tsp of cardamom powder and mix thoroughly.
7. Garnish: Serve the halwa in a bowl and garnish with finely sliced almonds and pistachios. Optionally, place a cashew nut on top.

Nutritional Benefits

Gajar ka Halwa is not just a treat for your taste buds; it also offers several health benefits:

• Rich in Vitamin A: Carrots are loaded with vitamin A, which is essential for good vision.
• High in Fiber: This dessert is a good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
• Vitamins C and K: Carrots also provide vitamins C and K, which are important for immune function and bone health.
• Calcium and Protein: The milk used in the recipe adds calcium and protein, essential for bone health.
• Antioxidants: The dry fruits used for garnishing are rich in antioxidants, which help in fighting free radicals.

Interesting Facts

• Historical Significance: Gajar ka Halwa has its origins in Mughal cuisine and has been a part of Indian culinary tradition for centuries.
• Popularity: According to a survey by the National Dairy Development Board, Gajar ka Halwa is one of the top 10 most popular desserts in India.
• Nutritional Value: A 100g serving of Gajar ka Halwa provides approximately 150 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dessert option.

Conclusion

Gajar ka Halwa is more than just a dessert; it's a winter tradition that brings families together. Its rich flavors and nutritional benefits make it a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic North Indian cuisine.

For more delicious recipes and culinary tips, check out the Kitchen Library YouTube Channel. To explore a wide range of recipes, you can also get your copy of the Tarla Dalal Kitchen Library.

Sources:

• National Dairy Development Board
• Healthline on Carrots