Winter Dessert: 5 Tips To Get The Perfect Gaajar Ka Halwa

Last Updated:November 11, 2024, 18:33 IST

Made with carrots, milk, sugar, and dried fruits, homemade Gaajar Ka Halwa has a unique flavour that store-bought versions often lack due to their excessive sweetness

With the onset of winter comes the craving for Gaajar Ka Halwa, especially among North Indians. This carrot-based dessert is widely enjoyed during the colder months and holds a special place at winter weddings.

Made by cooking carrots, milk, sugar, and dried fruits, homemade Gaajar Ja Halwa has a unique flavour that readymade versions often lack due to their excessive sweetness. If you struggle to make it at home, here are five easy tips to help you cook this delicious dish.

5 Tips For The Perfect Gaajar Ka Halwa

1. Choose the Right Carrots: The secret to tasty Gajar Ka Halwa lies in selecting bright red carrots, as they are the most flavourful. Avoid thick carrots and opt for long, thin varieties. Freshness is essential, so pick carrots with vibrant green tops.
2. Prepare the Carrots Properly: Wash the carrots thoroughly before grating. Peel them, then dry with a towel. Use the coarse side of your grater for the ideal texture — grating too finely may make the halwa mushy.
3. Add Cream for Extra Flavour: Full-cream milk is essential for Gaajar Ka Halwa. Mix in a bowl of cream before adding the milk for a creamier texture and richer taste.
4. Mind the Sugar Levels: If you are adding mawa (khoya) be mindful of the sugar quantity, as both mawa and carrots are naturally sweet. Using less sugar will allow the other flavours to shine through without overwhelming the dessert.
5. Don’t Skimp on Ghee: Using enough ghee is crucial to achieving authentic Gaajar Ka Halwa. Cook it slowly until the colour deepens from bright orange to a rich, dark orange for the best results.