Gajar ka Halwa is one of the most popular Indian Desserts of all time. Gajar ka Halwa or Carrot Pudding is usually made during winter months in India as we get red and juicy carrots during this time of the year. This delightful dessert is prepared at homes, and also at special occasions like weddings, festivals, and parties. Traditionally Gajar ka Halwa is made with whole milk, sugar, and nuts, and cooked on the very low heat. But nowadays, to cut the cooking time, some easy variations are made to this rich dessert. Condensed milk or khoya(dried evaporated milk solids) is used instead of whole milk. The most difficult part in making this dessert is grating the carrots, but it can also be done at ease when you use a food processor.
In this recipe, I have used some whole milk to cook the grated carrots and once it thickens I have added condensed milk to give the creamy texture to the halwa. The sugar from the condensed milk was enough to make this dessert sweet, but you can always add extra sugar if it’s little less sweet for you. I have let the entire mixture cook on low stirring regularly. The sweet and pleasant aroma of cardamom and the richness of almonds, cashews, and raisins will make this dessert a must in your homes.
Ingredients:
- 1 Kg Carrots
- 2 Cups Whole Milk
- 1 tin Sweetened Condensed Milk (around 400 gm)
- 1 Tsp. Cardamom Powder
- 2 Tbsp. Ghee (Clarified Butter)
- 2 Tbsp. Slivered Almonds
- 2 Tbsp. chopped Cashews
- 2 Tbsp. Raisins
Method:
- First wash, peel and grate the carrots with a grater or a food processor.
- Heat the ghee in a kadhai or a deep heavy bottomed pan, and add the grated carrots in it.
- Saute the carrots on medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring.
- Now, add milk to the carrots and give it a nice mix. Cover and cook the mixture on low heat till the carrots are cooked completely and milk starts to thicken up. Keep stirring at regular intervals to prevent sticking and even cooking.
- Once you see that carrots have turned tender and the milk has evaporated, add condensed milk to it. Stir well so the carrots and condensed milk are well incorporated.
- Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring at regular intervals.
- Once the mixture thickens up, add cardamom powder, almonds, cashews, and raisins and mix well.
- Switch off the heat.
- Delicious Gajar ka Halwa is ready to relish. Serve this yummy halwa warm or cold.
