Gajar Halwa

 Gajar ka Halwa, also known as Carrot Halwa, is a beloved Indian dessert made from fresh carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter). It's a delightful sweet treat, especially popular during festivals and celebrations. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

500 grams (about 4 cups) grated carrots

2 cups full-fat milk

1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)

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

1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Raisins for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Carrots:

Wash, peel, and grate the carrots. You can use a food processor for this to save time.

Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai and add the grated carrots to it.

2. Cooking the Carrots:

Cook the grated carrots over medium-low heat, stirring continuously.

Continue cooking until the carrots become soft and most of the moisture evaporates. This can take about 20-25 minutes.

3. Add Milk:

Pour in the milk and stir well.

Continue to cook the mixture over low to medium-low heat until the milk thickens and reduces. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

This can take 30-40 minutes. The carrots will absorb the milk and become even softer.

4. Add Sugar:

Once the milk has reduced significantly and the carrots are tender, add the sugar.

Stir well and cook for another 10-15 minutes. The sugar will melt and combine with the carrots to form a glossy mixture.

5. Add Ghee and Flavorings:

Heat the ghee in a separate pan of microwave until it's melted but not too hot.

Pour the melted ghee over the carrot mixture.

Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) for flavor.

Stir well to incorporate the ghee and flavorings.

6. Garnish:

In a separate small pan, lightly roast the chopped nuts until they become fragrant. This should only take a few minutes on low heat.

Garnish the carrot halwa with the roasted nuts and, if you like, some raisins.

7. Serve:

Gajar ka Halwa is traditionally served warm.

Enjoy this delectable carrot halwa as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Gajar ka Halwa can be enjoyed on special occasions or as a sweet indulgence any time of the year. It's a comforting dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and rich, carrot flavor.