Winters are about indulging in hot traditional desserts and enjoying the weather by gathering around a bonfire. Gajar ka halwa to doodh jalebi, you have not lived through the biting cold unless you have relished these delicacies. They are not only delicious but also known to keep your body warm and prevent it from catching cold.
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One of the famous traditional delights prepared in winter in North India is halwa. It can be gajar halwa, moong dal halwa, or urad dal halwa. If you are looking to add variations to the winter spread, you can explore different kinds of dal halwa.
Toor Dal Halwa
Toor dal is not only used to prepare lip-smacking dal dry but also a sugary delight that boasts a nutty texture and subtle taste. It is a less popular choice to prepare halwa but you cannot disregard the ingredient. Once you try its recipe, you will surely make it again. The trick is to garnish the halwa with cardamom and dry fruits. It is popularly prepared in Southern parts of the country.
Lentil Mix Halwa
If you are confused about which lentil to use to prepare halwa, how about mixing all of them? This recipe is one-of-a-kind as it brings together the nutritional value of different lentils and flaunts a rich texture. You can combine toor dal, moong dal, urad dal, and chana dal. Its complex flavours make it a must-try this winter season.
Masoor Dal Halwa
Masoor dal or red lentils are excellent ingredients for preparing halwa. It is mildly sweet which improves the taste and texture of the traditional sweet. Cook grind masoor dal in ghee and milk. You can add a couple of tablespoons of saffron milk for colour and rich taste. This halwa will taste better if you garnish it with cardamom powder and dry fruits.
Moong Dal Halwa
Moong dal halwa needs no introduction. It is widely prepared across Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, and other North Indian states during winter. Moong dal halwa is known to keep you warm, and it is a must-have in the biting cold. After roasting dal in ghee, cook it in a concoction of sweetened milk. Sprinkle cardamom powder and crushed dry fruits. Its velvety texture will leave you wanting for more.
Urad Dal Halwa
Urad dal halwa is made from black gram lentils, and it is a perfect sweet dish to prepare during winter and serve as a part of the special spread. Its taste gets elevated if you add a teaspoon of crushed cardamom. Unlike masoor dal, its taste is nutty and earthy. With a dense texture and high nutritional value, this is a popular sweet that North Indians and Punjabis enjoy in the biting cold.
Chana Dal Halwa
If you haven’t tried chana dal halwa, you must make it this year. Bengal gram is used to provide the recipe with a rich taste and depth of flavours. The dal is soaked and cooked in ghee, milk, and sugar. It’s a hearty dish with a grainy texture. You can prepare it for festive gatherings and special meals.