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Rava sheera, also known as sooji ka halwa, is a popular Indian dessert made with semolina, sugar, ghee, and water or milk. It is often served as a sweet dish during special occasions, festivals, and religious ceremonies. The dish has a long history and is enjoyed in many regions of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
The origin of rava sheera can be traced back to ancient India, where it was called "sooji halwa" and was considered a royal delicacy. According to Indian mythology, the dish was first made for Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity who was known to have a sweet tooth. Legend has it that the sheera was made with semolina, ghee, sugar, and saffron and was served to Lord Krishna during his childhood.
Over time, the dish became popular in different parts of India and was adapted to local tastes and preferences. In the northern regions of India, rava sheera is often made with milk and is called "sheera." It is usually served as a breakfast dish and is sometimes flavoured with cardamom, saffron, and nuts.
In the western state of Maharashtra, rava sheera is known as "suji ka halwa" and is a popular sweet dish served during festivals such as Diwali and Navratri. It is made with roasted semolina, sugar, and ghee and has cardamom and saffron flavours. It is often garnished with cashews, almonds, and raisins. In the southern region of India, it is called "kesari bath." While it is a popular dessert served during special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and festivals, rava sheera also makes for a breakfast dish or an evening snack.
In Pakistan and Bangladesh, rava sheera is known as "sooji ka halwa" and is a popular dessert served during Eid and other religious festivals. Rava sheera is not only a popular dessert but also has cultural and religious significance in India. In Hindu culture, it is prepared as an offering to the gods and often distributed as a prasad during religious ceremonies. It is also served to guests during weddings and other auspicious occasions.
In recent years, the dessert has gained popularity beyond the Indian subcontinent and is now enjoyed in many parts of the world. Rava sheera has been adapted to local tastes and is often served with different toppings and flavours.
Here is the recipe for rava sheera:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (rava/suji)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few strands of saffron
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, and pistachios)
- 1 tablespoon of raisins
Method
- Heat the ghee in a pan on medium heat.
- Add the semolina and roast it for 5–7 minutes, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and fragrant.
- Add the water and milk to the pan and stir well to prevent lumps.
- Cook on medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Add the sugar and mix well until it dissolves.
- Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands and mix well.
- Add the chopped nuts and raisins and stir well.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
- Turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
In conclusion, Rava Sheera is a popular Indian dessert with a long and rich history. It has evolved over time and is enjoyed in many parts of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The dish not only has cultural and religious significance but is also a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, Rava Sheera is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
