A rich and aromatic Indian sweet made with gram flour, ghee, milk, and fragrant cardamom. This comforting halwa is perfect for festive occasions or as a warm indulgent treat.
Besan Halwa
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1½ cups besan gram flour
- 1½ cups milk
- ¾ cup sugar or according to taste
- 2 strands saffron
- 2 tbsp chopped almonds cashews, or pistachios
- ¼ tsp cardamom powder
Instructions
- In a large kadai, heat the ghee over low flame.
- Once hot, add the besan and roast, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
- Continue roasting until the besan turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
- Add milk gradually, stirring well to prevent lumps.
- Add sugar and saffron, and keep stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and the besan absorbs all the milk.
- Cook until the mixture starts to leave the sides of the pan and separates cleanly.
- Mix in chopped dry fruits and cardamom powder. Stir well to combine.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Besan Halwa is a classic dish often made during cold weather- the warm, nutty aroma brings instant comfort and nostalgia. It’s made with simple ingredients and the magic lies in the slow roasting of besan in ghee until it develops a toasty, caramel- like flavour. It’s considered a strengthening food- perfect for winter or post illness recovery. The ghee and gram flour provide warmth, protein and energy. The Tex can be adjusted- from soft and melt in the mouth to grainy and chewy by varying the water and roasting time.