Discover how to make the perfect Halwa, a traditional sweet dessert that's incredibly versatile. Our easy-to-follow recipe features step-by-step instructions to create this delectable treat using ingredients like carrots or sweet potatoes. Perfect for festive occasions or a delightful everyday indulgence, this Halwa recipe promises a rich, flavorful experience that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups grated carrots or sweet potatoes

- 1 cup milk

- 1 cup sugar

- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios)

- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coconut (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  - Grate the carrots or sweet potatoes finely.

Cook the Vegetables:

  - In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium heat.

  - Add the grated carrots or sweet potatoes and cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes until they soften.

Add Milk:

  - Pour in the milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the milk is mostly absorbed.

Add Sugar and Cardamom:

  - Stir in the sugar and cardamom powder. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the mixture thickens further and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.

Add Nuts and Raisins:

  - Mix in the chopped nuts and raisins. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve:

  - Remove from heat and let the Halwa cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh coconut if desired.

Enjoy this sweet and comforting Halwa warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Values

Grated Carrots or Sweet Potatoes (2 cups)

Carrots:

  - Calories: 50 kcal

  - Protein: 1 gram

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 12 grams

  - Fiber: 4 grams

  - Sugars: 6 grams

  - Vitamin A: 184% of Daily Value (DV)

  - Vitamin C: 10% of DV

Sweet Potatoes:

  - Calories: 90 kcal

  - Protein: 2 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 21 grams

  - Fiber: 3 grams

  - Sugars: 7 grams

  - Vitamin A: 400% of DV

  - Vitamin C: 30% of DV

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins A and C, beneficial for vision and immune health.

 - Provides fiber, which aids in digestion.

Milk (1 cup)

 - Calories: 150 kcal

 - Protein: 8 grams

 - Fat: 8 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 12 grams

 - Calcium: 30% of DV

 - Vitamin D: 25% of DV

Benefits:

 - Good source of calcium and protein.

 - Supports bone health and muscle function.

Sugar (1 cup)

 - Calories: 774 kcal

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 200 grams

 - Sugars: 200 grams

Benefits:

 - Provides quick energy but should be used in moderation due to its high calorie content and lack of other nutrients.

Ghee (Clarified Butter) (2 tablespoons)

 - Calories: 112 kcal

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 12 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Benefits:

 - Contains healthy fats and has a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking.

 - Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Cardamom Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 6 kcal

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 0 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 1.6 grams

 - Fiber: 0.4 grams

Benefits:

 - Has anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

 - Adds flavor and can aid in digestion.

Chopped Nuts (1/4 cup, cashews, almonds, or pistachios)

Cashews:

  - Calories: 197 kcal

  - Protein: 5 grams

  - Fat: 16 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

Almonds:

  - Calories: 207 kcal

  - Protein: 8 grams

  - Fat: 18 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 7 grams

Pistachios:

  - Calories: 170 kcal

  - Protein: 6 grams

  - Fat: 14 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 8 grams

Benefits:

 - Provide healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals.

 - Promote heart health and can help with satiety.

Raisins (1/4 cup, optional)

 - Calories: 104 kcal

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Fat: 0 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 27 grams

 - Sugars: 21 grams

Benefits:

 - High in iron and antioxidants.

 - Can add natural sweetness and energy.

Fresh Coconut (1 tablespoon, optional)

 - Calories: ~35 kcal

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 3 grams

 - Carbohydrates: 2 grams

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats and some fiber.

 - Adds flavor and texture to dishes.

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and nutrient-rich dish, offering a balance of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.