Carrot Halwa (Gajar Ka Halwa) - Our Diwali, Ayurvedic, Dessert
A popular Diwali recipe that incorporates Ayurvedic ingredients is Carrot Halwa (Gajar Ka Halwa). This dessert is not only delicious but also uses ingredients that are often highlighted in Ayurveda for their health benefits.
Here’s how to make it...
Ingredients
- 1 kg carrots, grated
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1-2 cups sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A handful of cashews, almonds, and raisins
- Saffron strands (optional)
Ayurvedic Insights
- Carrots: High in vitamins and fiber, good for digestion and eyesight.
- Milk: Nourishing, balances Vata and Pitta.
- Ghee: Highly revered in Ayurveda, good for digestion and nourishes all tissues.
- Cardamom: An Ayurvedic spice that stimulates digestion and detoxifies.
- Nuts and dried fruits: Provide energy and are nourishing.
Instructions
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Cook the Carrots: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, add the grated carrots and milk. Bring to a boil and then simmer. Cook this mixture on a low flame, stirring regularly, until the milk is completely absorbed. This can take around 45 minutes to an hour.
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Add Sugar and Ghee: Once the milk is absorbed, add the sugar and mix well. Continue cooking on low heat. As the sugar melts, the halwa will again turn liquidy. Keep cooking and stirring until it thickens.
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Roast Nuts and Spices: In a separate small pan, heat the ghee and lightly roast the cashews, almonds, and raisins until they are golden brown. Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) to the nuts and mix well.
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Combine: Add the ghee and nuts mixture to the carrot and milk mixture. Mix everything well.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve the carrot halwa hot or at room temperature. For an extra touch, garnish with a few more nuts or a sprinkle of cardamom powder.
This carrot halwa is a warming and nourishing treat, perfectly aligning with Ayurvedic principles, especially during the cooler season when Diwali is celebrated.
It's a delightful way to incorporate the wisdom of Ayurveda into festive celebrations!