HomeRECIPES Gajar Halwa Recipe with Khoya | Carrot Dessert
1 January, 2024

Gajar Halwa Recipe with Khoya | Carrot Dessert

Posted in : RECIPES on by : Garima Tags: , ,

AUTHOR: G GARIMA

Gajar Halwa, also known as Gajrela or Carrot Halwa, is a delightful Indian dessert that combines the sweetness of grated Carrots, the richness of Milk, Khoya (Reduced Milk Solids), and the indulgence of Ghee (Clarified Butter). It is relished for its rich taste and cultural significance. This sweet dish holds a cherished place in Indian cuisine, especially, during festive occasions and celebratory gatherings.

History and Origin

The roots of Gajar Halwa trace back centuries ago to the Indian subcontinent. Its origins can be linked to the Mughal era when it was prepared for royalty using Carrots, Milk, Sugar, and Ghee (Clarified Butter). Over time, it evolved from a royal delicacy to a widely relished dessert across India.

Variations in Recipe

Across different regions of India, variations of Gajar Halwa emerge, with diverse methods of preparation and ingredient combination. For instance, some regions use Khoya (Reduced Milk Solids) to enhance the richness, while others infuse Saffron for a unique touch.

Traditional Recipe

The traditional recipe often involves “Slow Cooking” and a generous amount of Ghee (Clarified Butter), offering a rich and authentic flavor.

Quick Recipe Variations

Modern variations cater to time constraints, utilizing Condensed Milk or “Pressure Cooking” methods to create a quicker version without compromising on taste.

Let’s get started with the recipe.

The recipe i’m sharing today provides a traditional method of making Gajar ka Halwa using Khoya (Reduced Milk Solids), offering a rich and creamy texture to the dessert. I’m not using Milk for this recipe; instead using ready-made Khoya. You can also use ready-made Khoya or can reduce the milk at home to make Khoya.

INGREDIENTS Required:

1.5 kg (1500 Grams) Fresh Carrots
3 tsp Ghee (Clarified Butter)
1 Glass Water
170 Grams Sugar (adjust according to taste)
500 Grams Khoya (Reduced Milk Solids)
1 tsp Cardamom Powder
Chopped Nuts and Dried Fruits
(Almonds, Cashews, Raisins and Pistachios)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preparing Carrots:

  1. Cleaning: Wash and peel the Carrots.
  2. Grate the Carrots: Grate the washed and peeled Carrots using a grater. Ensure the Carrots are finely grated for a smoother texture. (Weigh the Whole Carrots before peeling and grating them).
  3. Cooking the Carrots: Heat 3 tsp Ghee (Clarified Butter) in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai (wok). Add the grated Carrots and sauté them on medium heat along with Water for about 40 minutes or until grated Carrots turn soft and release their aroma. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sweetening:

  1. Sweetening the Carrots: Once the Carrots are softened and properly cooked, add Sugar to the sautéed Carrots and stir until Sugar dissolves completely. Allow the Carrots to cook further for 3 to 4 minutes on low to medium heat. The Sugar will caramelize, imparting a rich color to the Carrots.
  2. Adding Dried Fruit: Add some Raisins before adding Khoya to it.

Adding Khoya (Reduced Milk Solids):

  1. Add Khoya: Add the ready-made Khoya (Reduced Milk Solids) and continue cooking while stirring continuously. Incorporate it well. Cook it further until the halwa thickens and attains a pudding-like consistency. This process will take approximately 10 to 12 minutes.

Flavoring and Garnishing:

  1. Flavoring with Cardamom: Sprinkle Cardamom Powder over the halwa for a fragrant touch. Mix it in thoroughly, enhancing the flavors of this dessert.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Once the halwa achieves the desired consistency, turn off the heat. Garnish it with Chopped Nuts and Dried Fruits of your choice, such as Almonds, Cashews, Raisins and Pistachios, adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal. I would suggest to roast the nuts before chopping them. Roasting the nuts enhances the flavor.
  3. Serve Warm: Gajar ka Halwa tastes best when served warm.

Prepare this Gajar ka Halwa with Khoya and relish the traditional flavors of this classic Indian dessert that embodies warmth and festivity. Enjoy this delectable dessert with family and friends, savoring the rich flavors and creamy texture.

Tips for Making Perfect Gajar Halwa

  • Use fresh and sweet Carrots to enhance the taste of Halwa.
  • Adjust the quantity of Sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
  • Khoya adds richness to the halwa, ensuring it is of good quality for the best taste.
  • Stir the Halwa continuously, especially after adding Milk and Khoya, to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
  • It’s best to add Sugar after Carrots are completely cooked. Adding Sugar too early or before sautéeing the carrots can draw out moisture from the carrots and stop the cooking of Carrots. So it is advisable to incorporate it towards the end of cooking carrots to prevent excessive drying.

Achieving the perfect texture and taste involves attention to detail, including the quality of carrots, slow cooking, and the balance of sweetness.

Serving and Pairing

Traditionally served warm, Gajar ka Halwa pairs excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh cream.

Gajar ka Halwa in Modern Cuisine

This classic dessert has found its way into modern cuisine, inspiring fusion desserts like Gajar Halwa Cheesecake or Ice cream, blending traditional flavors with contemporary treats.

Cultural Significance

This dessert symbolizes celebration, often served during festivals like Diwali and weddings, signifying joy, prosperity, and togetherness.