Grated carrots cooked in milk and sugar create this delicious carrot halwa.
Carrot Halwa Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 cups freshly grated carrots
- 3 cups milk
- 1¼ cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 2 cardamom pods
For Topping:
- 10 cashew nuts
- 1 tablespoon ghee (for toasting cashews)
Instructions:
- Peel and finely grate the carrots. You will need about 4 to 5 medium-sized carrots to get 2 cups.
- In a small pan, fry the cashew nuts in ghee until they turn golden brown. Set them aside.
- In a thick-bottomed saucepan, heat the milk and bring it to a boil. Add the grated carrots and simmer on medium heat.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Let the carrots absorb the milk, which should take about 15 minutes.
- Add the sugar and continue stirring until the mixture becomes thick and gooey, about 6 to 7 minutes.
- Mix in the crushed cardamom, fried cashews, and remaining ghee. Stir for a couple of minutes until the ghee starts to separate from the mixture.
- Turn off the heat and serve the halwa warm.
Carrot Halwa Benefits and Nutritious Value
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Carrots are a great source of Vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, skin health, and immune function.
- Good Source of Calcium: The milk used in the recipe provides a good amount of calcium, vital for strong bones and teeth.
- Energy Boosting: The sugar content in the halwa gives a quick energy boost, making it a great dessert for an instant pick-me-up.
- Healthy Fats: Ghee, used in the recipe, is a source of healthy fats that aid in digestion and improve the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Health Benefits:
- Antioxidant Properties: Carrots contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which help fight free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart Health: Cashew nuts are known to promote heart health by providing healthy fats and reducing bad cholesterol levels.
- Digestive Health: The fiber in carrots aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.