Gajar Ka Halwa
Gajar Ka Halwa is a classic Indian dessert made from grated carrots, slow-cooked in milk and sugar, and enriched with ghee and nuts. This rich and aromatic sweet dish is perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 1 hr 20 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Per serving
- 383 kcal
Allergen information: may contain milk, nuts, sulphites, and tree nuts. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
Ingredients
- 500 gcarrot, grated
- 750 mlmilk, full-fat
- 100 gsugar
- 30 gghee
- 0.5 tspcardamom powder
garnish
- 25 gcashew, chopped
- 25 galmond, sliced
- 15 graisin(optional)
Equipment
grater · large heavy-bottomed pan · stirring spoon
The method
Step by step
- 1
Wash and peel the carrots, then grate them using a fine grater or food processor.
About 10 min
Cook’s note: Ensure carrots are finely grated for a smoother halwa texture.
- 2
In a large heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, combine the grated carrots and milk.
- 3
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
About 5 min
- 4
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until most of the milk has evaporated and the carrots are soft.
About 40 min
Cook’s note: This step is crucial for developing flavor; be patient and stir often to prevent burning.
- 5
Add the sugar and ghee to the pan.
- 6
Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
About 10 min
Cook’s note: The halwa will become glossy and the ghee will separate slightly when it's done.
- 7
Stir in the cardamom powder.
- 8
Garnish with chopped cashews, sliced almonds, and raisins before serving warm.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: You can also add a pinch of saffron for extra aroma and color.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 382.6kcal
- Protein
- 10.3g
- Carbs
- 53.5g
- Fat
- 15.6g
- Fibre
- 4.7g
- Sugar
- 43.4g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store leftover gajar ka halwa in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk until warmed through.
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