Gajar Halwa Recipe (Carrot Halwa)
Gajar halwa is a warm carrot dessert slow-cooked in milk until thick, then finished with ghee, sugar, cardamom and nuts. It is a winter favorite across Pakistan and North India.
This recipe uses simple ingredients and a patient simmer for the best texture.
Why you will like this version
- Rich, creamy and not too sweet.
- Only 6 main ingredients.
- Perfect for winter and Eid.
What is gajar halwa?
Gajar means carrot and halwa is a sweet pudding. Red winter carrots are grated and cooked in milk until the milk reduces and the mixture turns thick and glossy.
Ingredients that matter
- Carrots: use red or orange carrots with a sweet flavor.
- Full-fat milk: it reduces into the halwa for richness.
- Ghee: adds shine and aroma.
Tips for the best halwa
- Grate the carrots finely for faster cooking.
- Cook the carrots in milk until almost all the milk is absorbed before adding sugar.
- Stir often so the bottom does not catch.
Gajar Halwa Recipe
Gajar Halwa (Carrot Halwa)
Grated carrots slow-cooked in milk with ghee, sugar, cardamom and nuts.
Ingredients
Method
- Add the grated carrots and milk to a heavy pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low.
- Cook for 50 to 60 minutes in a wide, heavy pan, stirring often, until nearly all the milk has been absorbed.
- Add the sugar and stir. The mixture will loosen; cook for 5 to 8 minutes until it thickens again.
- Add the ghee and cardamom and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring, until the halwa leaves the sides of the pot and looks glossy.
- Stir in half the nuts and the raisins. Serve warm, topped with the remaining nuts.
Notes
Serve warm. Stores 5 days refrigerated.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a food processor?
Yes. A grating disc saves time.
How do I store it?
Refrigerate for 5 days and reheat gently.
Can I use condensed milk?
Yes, add it near the end in place of some sugar.
