Dessert
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium-sized carrots, freshly grated
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- Condensed milk as needed
- Start with half a can; adjust to taste
- 1 tsp cardamom powder
- 4-5 threads of saffron
- ¾ cup mixed dry fruits
- 4-5 almonds, chopped or slivered
- 7-8 raisins
- 4-5 cashews, halved or chopped
- 7-8 pistachios, chopped or slivered
- 1 tbsp fresh cream or ricotta cheese, optional, for enhanced richness
Notes
Submitted by Devanshi Desai, data analytics associate in the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center
“The classic Indian dessert, Gajar Halwa, is a delightful combination of grated carrots, milk, sweetness and ghee! This quintessential winter dessert, especially cherished in North India, is rich, decadent, and packed with warm, comforting flavors.” – Devanshi
Adjust the quantity of condensed milk to your desired sweetness level. Reserve a portion of the dry fruits for garnishing.
Optional variation
For an indulgent twist, serve the halwa with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a bowl. Top with dry fruits for a delightful and visually appealing dessert.
Directions
- Grate the carrots using a grater or food processor for ease.
- Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in a non-stick pan. Add the grated carrots, and stir for 2-3 minutes on medium heat. Cover and cook for 5-6 minutes until the carrots soften.
- Add 1 cup of milk to the softened carrots. Stir, cover and simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes until the milk is absorbed.
- Stir in condensed milk, and adjust to taste. Add saffron strands, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates.
- Sprinkle cardamom powder and mix in the pre-sautéed dry fruits. Stir and optionally add extra ghee. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- For extra richness, stir in fresh cream / ricotta cheese once the liquid has evaporated. Mix gently to create a creamy texture.
- Transfer the halwa to a serving dish, garnish with reserved dry fruits, and serve warm.
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