Desserts are a huge part of Indian culture. ‘Kuch Meetha Ho Jaye’ is perhaps one phrase we use on all happy, celebratory occasions. And while there are cakes and brownies that are utterly delicious, no occasion is complete in India without a slice of Kaju Katli or decadent kheer. Think of winter and Indian desserts, and one of the first things that many of us would have on our mind is the heavenly Gajar Ka Halwa. After all winter season is all about comforting, warm food, isn’t it? But did you know you could do so much when it comes to sweets, with the seasonal veggie? So if summer calls for everything to do with the luscious mango, winter brings along delicacies made with gajar. And they go beyond the staple halwa. Wondering what all it could be? Read on.
Here are four desi desserts made with carrot that are sure to make you slurp. Crunchy, fresh and sweet carrots make for a perfect ingredient for desserts, besides adding a whole lot of nutrition to them.
1. Gajar Ki Kheer
Kheer is the ultimate Indian dessert that spells celebration like nothing else. Be it a festive mood or a piece of happy news, kheer brings all of it alive. The best part about making kheer is that one can experiment with the ingredients a lot more. Preparing it in summers? Toss in some mangoes. And now that the winter is here, nothing better than giving it a seasonal twist with gajar. Simply add carrots with cashews, almonds and raisins, cook with milk, simmer, flavour with cardamom and sugar.
2. Shahi Gajar Tukda
The classic Shahi Tukda with a Gajar twist is all you need this winter season to please your sweet tooth. Carrot, sugar and maida baked and cut in tiny squares and topped with a khoya filling makes this an absolute delight.
3. Carrot Kalakand
This is a unique dessert that you just can’t miss this winter season. Kalakand is a Rajasthani cake made with sweetened, solidified milk. This version has an addition of gajar and ricotta cheese which makes it irresistible.
4. Gajar Khoya Barfi
Mixed nuts, grated carrot, khoya, coconut and milk come together for this delicious amalgamation. Gajar Khoya Barfi is sure to melt in the mouth.