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Besan Halwa

Servings 4
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

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.
Author: Suchi Malhotra
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Indian