How to Make Indian Gajar Halwa (Carrot Pudding)

Indian Gajar Halwa, also known as Carrot Pudding, is a delicious and aromatic dessert that brings the sweetness of grated carrots and milk together in a rich, indulgent treat. This popular Indian sweet is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. Here's a simple guide on how to make this delightful dessert at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg fresh carrots (preferably red carrots)
  • 1 liter whole milk
  • 200 grams sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 100 grams ghee (clarified butter)
  • 100 grams khoya (reduced milk)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • Raisins (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Start by washing and peeling the carrots. Grate the carrots using a box grater or a food processor for efficiency. The finer the grate, the creamier the halwa will be.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots

In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the grated carrots and pour in the whole milk. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Allow the carrots to cook in the milk until the liquid reduces and thickens, which should take about 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Ghee

When the milk has reduced significantly and the mixture is sticky, it’s time to add the sugar. Mix it well, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.

Next, add the ghee to the mixture. This will enhance the richness of the halwa. Stir it in and continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Khoya and Nuts

Once the halwa reaches a thick consistency, crumble the khoya into the mixture and combine thoroughly. Khoya adds an extra level of creaminess and flavor to the dessert.

Now, throw in the chopped nuts and cardamom powder. Mix everything well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the Gajar Halwa from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. You can serve it warm or chilled, based on your preference.

Garnish with additional chopped nuts and a few raisins if desired. For an extra touch, you can also drizzle a little more ghee on top.

Tips for the Perfect Gajar Halwa

  • Using fresh, tender carrots will significantly enhance the sweetness and overall taste of the halwa.
  • Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sugar according to your taste.
  • For a vegan version, substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk and skip the khoya.

Enjoy your homemade Gajar Halwa, a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of Indian sweets. Its rich flavor and smooth texture are sure to leave you craving more!