Alma Bax Did you know that carrots contain a special enzyme called Alpha Carotene which is a great source of Vitamin A? It is also believed that carrots help promote healthy teeth, healthy skin, and good vision. Besides all that, it is also known that carrots are a good source of beta-carotene.
Carrot halwa, also known as carrot qeema (carrot pudding) is a favorite at weddings and festivals in India – it’s light, refreshing and a great way to incorporate veggies into your diet. Traditionally the halwa is prepared with grated carrot and sugar, but if you’re looking for a healthier version, the roasted version is a great choice. And if you’re feeling adventurous, this recipe is perfect for a first time cook.
Carrot has a bad reputation for being a vegetable high in carbs. In fact, many people and scientists have tried to find out whether this is true or not. While there are studies that have shown that you can lose weight with carrots, it does not mean that carrots are not good for you. Carrots are a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. Carrots also contain ample amounts of vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision and cell growth.
Gajar ka halwa is a traditional, well-known, and tasty Indian dessert. It may be served warm or at room temperature and can be prepared for any occasion. I made Gajar ka halwa without the use of Mewa or khoya. Khoya or Mewa is used in desserts to provide richness and flavor. I made beetroot halwa while preparing gajar ka halwa, as you can see in the photo. The technique of preparation is the same, but the flavor and color are different. You may use whatever nuts you want, such as almonds or pistachios, depending on your preferences. Gajar ka halwa is made by thickening milk over a low or medium heat while constantly swirling it to keep it from sticking to the bottom. As a result, it is cooked on a low heat, although it may also be cooked on a medium flame in between.
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cup carrots (gajar, grated)
- 1 cup of milk (220 to 250 ml)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 to 3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 7 cashew nuts
- Pistachios – to be determined
Method
- Set aside the grated carrot.
- Preheat the nonstick vessel or any kadai, add 1 tbsp ghee, and add the shredded carrot after it has warmed up.
- For the first 2 minutes on medium heat and 3 minutes on simmer temperature, stir or roast until the water evaporates.
- It’s roasted in ghee to help it absorb the flavor.
- Add the milk, stir well, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- I added cardamom powder while it was boiling, but it may also be added afterwards when the sugar is added.
- Cook over medium heat at first, but when the milk thickens and becomes dry, it will easily cling to the bottom and burn, so decrease the heat to a lower setting (simmer).
- Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pot.
- When the milk has dried up and thickened, drizzle in 1/2 tbsp ghee.
- When the milk has thickened and dried, and all liquid has been absorbed, add the sugar and stir thoroughly.
- Cook on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts.
- While stirring, drizzle in 1/2 tbsp ghee, a little at a time.
- After 10 minutes, gajar ka halwa begins to leave the pan or vessel; turn it off as soon as it achieves the desired consistency.
- On the carrot, garnish with chopped roasted cashew nuts and pistachios, like I did with the beetroot halwa. Warm the dish before serving.
Notes
- Sugar and ghee are added to taste and may be reduced or increased to suit your preferences.
- Take a look at my beetroot halwa, which follows the identical steps.
- Instead of grating them, I coarsely ground them in my mixer, which is faster and easier, but it is entirely up to you.
- Instead of heating the carrots straight in the milk, thicken the milk first, then add the roasted carrots and simmer, whatever method is most convenient for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gajar ka halwa healthy?
Gajar ka halwa is a traditional Indian dessert. It contains no dairy, refined sugar, or preservatives.
Why Gajar ka halwa turned black?
Gajar ka halwa is a sweet dish made of carrots, sugar, and milk. The black color comes from the milk that has curdled from the heat of cooking.
What is carrot halwa called in English?
Carrot halwa is called carrot pudding in English.
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