Besan ka Halwa is a traditional Indian sweet dish made from roasted gram flour (besan), sugar, ghee, and milk. It is rich, aromatic, and has a delightful texture. Here’s a simple recipe to prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi)
- A handful of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
- A few saffron strands (optional)
Method:
- Roast the Besan:
- Heat a non-stick pan on low to medium heat and add the ghee.
- Once the ghee melts, add the besan (gram flour).
- Stir continuously to avoid burning. Roast the besan in ghee for about 8-10 minutes or until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
- Add Milk and Water:
- In a separate bowl, heat the milk and water together.
- Gradually add the warm milk-water mixture to the roasted besan, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to come together as a smooth paste.
- Add Sugar and Cardamom:
- Once the halwa has thickened, add the sugar.
- Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and shiny.
- Add cardamom powder for flavor and mix well.
- Cook and Garnish:
- Continue to cook the halwa on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens further and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
- If you prefer a richer taste, you can add more ghee at this stage.
- Add chopped nuts and saffron strands, and stir them in.
- Serve:
- Once the halwa is thick and glossy, transfer it to a serving dish.
- Garnish with more nuts or a few saffron strands if desired.
- Serve hot or warm.
Enjoy your Besan ka Halwa as a delicious dessert or snack!
