Gajar ka Halwa recipe with khoya: A creamy winter delight

New Delhi: Gajar ka Halwa is a loved traditional Indian dessert that is devoured fondly in the winter season.  This sweet delight also welcomes the season of fresh carrots. It tastes even more delicious and flavourful when made with the addition of khoya (mawa). Adding khoya gives this sweet dish a creamy texture and deep, caramelised flavour, which gives it a sumptuous version of the classic halwa. This dessert is often enjoyed warm and is ideal for family gatherings, festive occasions, and celebrations during the winter season.

Gajar ka Halwa with Khoya is more than just a sweet dish; it is a simple home-cooked meal, where the simplicity of carrots meets the richness of khoya, and create a dish that is both heartwarming and delectable.

Carrot Halwa with Khoya recipe

Here is a simple recipe on how to make this delightful winter dessert:

Ingredients:

• 4 large carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 ½ cups full-fat milk
• ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup khoya (morning), crumbled
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 4-5 green cardamom, crushed
• A handful of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, and pistachios)
• 1 tbsp raisins (optional)
• Saffron strands (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Grate the carrots finely using a grater or a food processor.
2. Take a heavy-bottomed pan and heat the ghee over medium flame.
3. Add the grated carrots to the pan and saute them for 3-4 minutes until they turn soft a bit and start releasing a sweet and flavourful aroma.
4. Once the carrots turn tender, pour the milk and stir well.
5. Let this mixture simmer on low-medium heat while stirring occasionally.
6. Cook until the milk boils by half and the carrots become soft. This process will take about 15-20 minutes.
7. Once the milk has been reduced, add the sugar and crushed cardamom.
8. Stir it until the sugar gets dissolves fully, and the halwa starts to thicken.
9. Now, crumble the khoya and add this to the halwa.
10. Stir well to mix it completely, allowing the khoya to melt and blend into the mixture.
11. Continue to cook until the halwa thickens further and starts adding richness and creaminess.
12. Once the halwa reaches to pudding-like consistency now add the chopped nuts and raisins.
13. Cook for another 2-3 minutes and then remove it from heat.
14. Garnished with additional chopped nuts and served hot.