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Believe it or not, halwa is one of the easiest sweet treats which you can whip up at home in minutes. Semolina (suji or rava) is a common base for halwa and is widely available. Sugar is essential for sweetness, and ghee (clarified butter) provides richness and a smooth texture. Water or milk is typically used to cook the semolina and dissolve the sugar, creating the halwa's characteristic consistency.
For instance, Rawa kesari, is one of the simplest recipes which is also a great festive staple. Also known simply as kesari, is a South Indian sweet made from semolina, sugar, and ghee. The preparation involves roasting semolina in ghee until it becomes fragrant, then adding sugar and water to create a thick, sweet mixture. Often flavoured with saffron or cardamom, kesari is known for its bright colour and aromatic flavour. Here are some other simple, fast halwa recipes.
Suji Halwa
Suji halwa, also known as rava or semolina halwa, is a classic and straightforward dessert that is popular in Indian homes. Made with semolina, sugar, ghee, and water or milk, it’s known for its comforting texture and rich flavour. The process involves roasting the semolina in ghee until it’s golden brown, then adding sugar and liquid to create a sweet, creamy mixture. The warm, aromatic halwa can be garnished with nuts and raisins for added texture and flavour.
Gajar ka Halwa
Gajar ka halwa is a delectable dessert made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. This vibrant dish is known for its rich, sweet flavour and lovely texture. The carrots are slow-cooked in milk until they are tender and the milk is reduced to a creamy consistency. Sugar and ghee are added to enhance the flavour, and the halwa is often garnished with nuts like almonds and cashews.
Besan Halwa
Besan halwa, made from chickpea flour (besan), is another easy-to-make halwa that’s perfect for those who enjoy a nutty flavour. The preparation involves roasting besan in ghee until it develops a rich, toasty aroma. Sugar and water (or milk) are then added to create a thick, sweet halwa. The halwa is a rich, satisfying dessert that has a slightly grainy texture and a deep, caramelized flavour.
Lauki ka Halwa
Lauki ka halwa, or bottle gourd halwa, is a light and refreshing dessert made from grated bottle gourd, milk, sugar, and ghee. The bottle gourd is cooked in milk until it softens and the milk reduces to a creamy consistency. Sugar and ghee are added to sweeten and enrich the dish. This halwa is known for its delicate flavour and smooth texture, making it a comforting choice for those looking for a lighter sweet treat. It’s also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your dessert menu.
Moong Dal Halwa
Moong dal halwa is a rich, flavorful dessert made from split yellow moong dal, sugar, ghee, and milk. The preparation involves soaking the moong dal, and then grinding it into a coarse paste. The paste is then cooked in ghee until it turns golden brown, after which sugar and milk are added to create a thick, creamy halwa. This dish has a rich, nutty flavour and a smooth, indulgent texture.
Doodh ka Halwa
Doodh ka halwa, or milk halwa, is a rich and creamy dessert made from milk, sugar, and ghee. This halwa is prepared by simmering milk until it reduces to a thick, pudding-like consistency. Sugar is then added to sweeten the halwa, and ghee is used to enrich the flavour and texture. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the richness of the final dish, which is often garnished with nuts and cardamom. Doodh ka halwa is a great choice for those looking for a straightforward yet indulgent dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of milk.
