By Ujjainee Roy
October 5, 2024
Homemade coconut halwa is the perfect festive dessert! Rich, fragrant, and loaded with the goodness of coconut, this halwa is easy to make and perfect for celebrations. Coconut is known for its unique flavor and health benefits, making it a favorite ingredient in Indian sweets. This halwa combines coconut with milk, sugar, and ghee for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat that is perfect for festivals like Diwali, Navratri, or Durga Puja.
– 2 cups freshly grated coconut (or desiccated coconut) – 1 cup sugar – 1 cup milk – 3 tablespoons ghee – 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder – 10-12 cashews – 8-10 almonds (sliced) – A few saffron strands (optional)
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the grated coconut and sauté on low heat for 4-5 minutes until it turns light golden and aromatic. Keep stirring to avoid burning.
Pour in the milk and cook the mixture over medium heat. Stir continuously and let the coconut absorb the milk, which will take around 8-10 minutes. Add sugar to the coconut mixture, and continue stirring.
Once the mixture thickens, add the remaining ghee, cardamom powder, and saffron strands. Mix well, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the halwa reaches your desired consistency.
In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and lightly roast the cashews and sliced almonds until golden brown. Transfer the Coconut Halwa to a serving dish, and garnish with roasted nuts