Are you craving a delicious and comforting dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this quick and easy Gajar Halwa recipe, made even simpler with the addition of condensed milk! This delightful Indian sweet carrot pudding is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times – this version delivers rich, creamy, and intensely flavorful gajar halwa in a fraction of the time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 kg Carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1 cup Milk (Whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup Sugar (Adjust to your preference, depending on the sweetness of your condensed milk)
- 1/4 cup Ghee (Clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup Cashews, chopped
- 1/4 cup Raisins
- 1 tsp Cardamom powder
- Pinch of Saffron strands (optional, for color and aroma)
- A few strands of Rose petals (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Nuts: In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cashews and sauté until golden brown. Remove the cashews and set aside. Reserve the ghee in the pan.
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Cook the Carrots: Add the grated carrots to the pan with the remaining ghee. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots soften slightly and release some moisture.
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Simmer with Milk: Pour in the milk and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and most of the milk has been absorbed.
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Add Condensed Milk & Sugar: Stir in the condensed milk and sugar. Mix well and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and burning. The mixture will start to thicken.
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Incorporate Flavorings: Add the cardamom powder and saffron (if using). Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Finishing Touches: Stir in the raisins and roasted cashews. Mix gently to combine. Cook for another minute or two until the halwa reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from heat and let the gajar halwa cool slightly before serving. Garnish with rose petals (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature. This delicious dessert is best enjoyed fresh!
Tips for the Best Gajar Halwa:
- Grate the carrots finely: This ensures even cooking and a smoother texture.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan: This prevents burning and ensures even heat distribution.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can make the halwa dry. Cook until it reaches a creamy, thick consistency.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the halwa as you cook and adjust the sugar according to your preference.
Variations:
- Add other nuts: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds, pistachios, or pecans.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Vegan Version: Substitute ghee with coconut oil or vegan butter and use plant-based milk.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. It's always recommended to use a nutritional calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: High (due to ghee and nuts)
- Sugar: High (due to condensed milk and sugar)
This quick and easy Gajar Halwa recipe with condensed milk is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the simple joy of homemade cooking and the delicious taste of this classic Indian dessert!