Make This Comforting Amritsari Gur Halwa This Winter

By Ujjainee Roy

November 4, 2024

Amritsari Gur Halwa is a traditional Punjabi dessert known for its comforting richness and the earthy sweetness of jaggery (gur). Often enjoyed during cold months, this halwa is a nourishing and warming treat, packed with the goodness of semolina (sooji), desi ghee, and gur. It’s both quick to prepare and perfect as a festive dessert or an offering during special occasions in Sikh and Punjabi households.

Ingredients

– 1 cup semolina (sooji/rava) – 1 cup jaggery (grated or powdered) – 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) – 3 cups water – 1/4 tsp cardamom powder – Sliced almonds, pistachios, and cashews for garnish

Step 1

In a pot, add 3 cups of water and heat it. Add the grated or powdered jaggery, stirring until it dissolves completely. Strain to remove any impurities, then set aside.

Step 2

Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the semolina, stirring continuously to roast until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3

Carefully pour the jaggery syrup into the roasted semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook on medium heat until the mixture thickens and the semolina absorbs all the liquid.

Step 4

Add the cardamom powder for a hint of fragrance and flavor. Once the halwa leaves the sides of the pan, turn off the heat. Garnish with sliced almonds, pistachios, and cashews.