Gajar Ka Halwa

Description

A classic Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, flavored with cardamom and nuts.

Ingredients

• 500g carrots, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 3 tablespoons ghee
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
• 1/4 cup raisins

Instructions

1. Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the grated carrots and sauté for 10-15 minutes until the raw smell disappears and the carrots soften slightly.
2. Add milk to the pan and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the milk is absorbed and the carrots are cooked through. This will take about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add sugar and cardamom powder. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sugar is dissolved and the halwa thickens.
4. Add the chopped nuts and raisins. Mix well and cook for another minute.
5. Serve hot or warm, garnished with more nuts if desired.

Chef's Secret

Roasting the carrots in ghee until they are slightly caramelized before adding the milk enhances the flavor and gives a richer color to the halwa. Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture.