By Ujjainee Roy
July 23, 2024
Kerala Halwa is a traditional sweet treat famous for its glossy texture, chewy consistency, and rich flavor. The primary ingredients used in making Kerala Halwa are rice flour, jaggery, ghee and coconut oil. These ingredients are slowly cooked together until they form a thick, translucent mixture. Often enhanced with cardamom, cashews, or raisins, Kerala Halwa comes in various vibrant colors.
– 1 cup rice flour – 3 cups water – 2 cups jaggery – 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter) – 1/4 cup coconut oil – 1 teaspoon cardamom powder – 1/4 cup cashews (optional) – 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
In a saucepan, melt the jaggery with a little water over medium heat. Once melted, strain the syrup to remove impurities and set aside. In a bowl, mix rice flour with 3 cups of water to make a smooth batter without lumps.
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee and coconut oil on medium heat. Add the rice flour batter to the pan, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Gradually add the jaggery syrup, continuing to stir. Cook the mixture on medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it starts to thicken. Once the mixture thickens and begins to leave the sides of the pan, add the cardamom powder.
Continue to cook and stir until the halwa becomes glossy and leaves the sides of the pan, forming a mass. Grease a plate or tray with a little ghee or coconut oil.
Pour the halwa onto the greased plate and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool and set completely. Once cooled, cut the halwa and serve.