Introduction
Gajar ka halwa, or carrot halwa. This dessert , warm, and very tasty. Halwa is prepared carrots that are grated, milk, ghee, sugar, and nuts. Besides, it has a gentle, feel and a sweet scent that spreads all over your house.
In Pakistani homes, this dessert is often made during winter when Carrot Ka Halwa Recipe are fresh and sweet. Families enjoy it after dinner or serve it to guests during special occasions. It is simple to make and always brings comfort.
There are multiple methods to prepare this halwa. Certain individuals favor khoya, others prefer the use of milk or condensed milk. In this particular recipe, we will be preparing the traditional Pakistani-style one with milk and ghee.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Carrots (grated) | 1 kg | Use red, fresh carrots for best flavor |
| Full cream milk | 1 liter | Whole milk gives a creamy texture |
| Sugar | 1 cup | Adjust to taste |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 4 tbsp | Adds richness and aroma |
| Cardamom powder | 1 tsp | For sweet fragrance |
| Khoya (optional) | ½ cup | For richer taste |
| Chopped almonds | 2 tbsp | For garnish |
| Chopped pistachios | 2 tbsp | For garnish |
| Raisins | 1 tbsp | Optional but adds sweetness |
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Carrots
First, washing and peeling are the first steps on the way to the next stage of grating. After that, take a grater and follow through grating uniformly. Use red and fresh carrots to ensure not only the best quality but also the good color and taste.
Step 2 – Cook the Carrots in Milk
Take a big saucepan and put milk in. the grated carrot goes in and the mixture is heated on medium flame. stirring is required to prevent the milk from burning on the bottom. The process lasts until the carrots become soft and the milk is reduced.
Step 3 – Add Sugar and Cardamom
When the milk thickens and carrots are cooked, add sugar cardamom powder. Stir well. The mixture will become slightly runny again as sugar melts. Cook until it thickens again.
Step 4 – Add Ghee
Now add ghee to the mixture and combine thoroughly. Continue to cook until halwa is completely off the edges of the pan and the ghee has separated. This is the point where halwa gets its rich flavor and shiny appearance.
Step 5 – Add Khoya and Garnish
Khoya is being now is the time to add it and cook for an additional 5 minutes. diced almonds, pistachios, and raisins. Stir gently and switch off the burner.
Cooking Time & Serving
| Type | Time |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Servings | 6–8 people |
Serve hot or warm. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special touch.
Tips & Tricks
• Use fresh red carrots for the best flavor and color.
• Always cook on medium flame for even texture.
• Stir so it does not burn at the bottom.
• little khoya or condensed milk for richer halwa.
• Adjust sugar based sweetness preference.
• You can store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
History of the Dish
Carrot halwa comes from the Indian subcontinent Mughal rule. It was favored in Pakistan as a winter sweet since the season abounds with carrots. Finally, over time, addition of milk, ghee, and khoya created a more luxurious flavor.
In Pakistani culture, this halwa is often served at weddings, Eid, and family dinners. Every household has its own variation, but the essence remains the same—a sweet dish made with love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not use watery carrots, they reduce flavor.
- Avoid cooking on high flame, it burns the milk.
- Do not add sugar too early, it stops carrots from softening.
- Adding too much ghee makes it oily, so use the right amount.
Storage Method (How to Store Leftovers)
Carrot ka halwa store karna hai to airtight container mein rakhein. Refrigerate karte rahiye up to 5 days. Serve karne se pehle pan ya microwave mein phir se garam karein. Aap ise ek mahine tak freeze bhi kar sakte hain.
When reheating frozen halwa, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it with a little ghee for fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve it warm sprinkle of nuts.
• Pair it with vanilla ice cream for a modern touch.
• Serve it during family gatherings or after dinner.
• Use small bowls for serving, it looks elegant and easy to eat.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make carrot halwa without milk?
Answers, Yes, you can use condensed milk or milk powder with a little water.
Q2: What is the best carrot for halwa?
Answers, Red, desi carrots are the best. They are sweet and give a deep color.
Q3: Can I use oil instead of ghee?
Answers: Ghee gives the real flavor. Oil can be used but the taste will not be the same.
Q4: How long does it take to cook?
Answers, Usually 45–60 minutes depending on the quantity and flame.
Q5: Can I serve it cold?
Answers, Yes, you can serve it chilled, but it tastes best when warm.
Conclusion
In Pakistan, dessert is not the only thing that carrot halwa can be called. It is already considered a cultural attribute of the country. The very features of this delicacy – soft texture, sweet smell and rich flavor—make it a perfect winter dessert. What is more, cooking it at home is very easy.
Try this easy Pakistani-style carrot ka halwa recipe today and share your feedback in the comments.
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