Winter in Rajasthan is a time to indulge in rich, flavorful sweets that warm the soul. One such treat is the famous Rajasthani-style almond pudding, also known as “Badam Halwa.” This delectable dessert is a winter favorite, loved for its creamy texture and aromatic, nutty flavor. When made with love and traditional ingredients, it becomes a mouth-watering dish that leaves everyone licking their fingers! Here’s how you can make this delightful treat at home.
Ingredients:
- Almonds (Badam): 1 cup (soaked and peeled)
- Full-fat Milk: 2 cups
- Sugar: ¾ cup (adjust according to taste)
- Ghee (Clarified Butter): 2-3 tbsp
- Cardamom Powder: ½ tsp
- Saffron strands: A few strands (soaked in warm milk)
- Chopped Dry Fruits (optional): Cashews, pistachios, raisins, or almonds
- Rose Water or Kewra Water (optional): A few drops for aroma
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Almond Paste
- Soak the almonds in warm water for about 4-5 hours or overnight.
- Peel the almonds and grind them into a smooth paste using a little milk. You should get a thick, creamy texture.
Step 2: Cook the Almond Paste
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee.
- Add the almond paste to the ghee and cook it on medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning and to ensure it cooks evenly. The paste will begin to thicken and release a pleasant aroma as it cooks.
Step 3: Add Milk and Sugar
- Once the almond paste has cooked for a few minutes, add the full-fat milk to the pan. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- As the milk reduces, the pudding will thicken. Add sugar according to your sweetness preference, and continue stirring.
Step 4: Flavor and Garnish
- Add cardamom powder to the mixture for that traditional Rajasthani flavor. This will give your pudding a wonderful aroma and taste.
- Once the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency, add saffron milk for color and richness. A few strands of saffron will add a royal touch and a warm golden hue.
- For extra richness, add chopped dry fruits like cashews, almonds, or raisins. These will also add a delightful crunch and texture to the pudding.
- Optional: Add a few drops of rose water or kewra water for an added fragrance that will transport you to the heart of Rajasthan.
Step 5: Serving
- When the pudding has thickened and reached a halwa-like consistency, remove it from the heat. It should have a smooth, creamy texture.
- Serve the Rajasthani almond pudding warm in small bowls. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a few strands of saffron.
Tips for Perfect Almond Pudding:
- Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk to control the consistency. If you like it thicker, cook it a bit longer.
- Sweetness: You can adjust the sugar based on how sweet you want the pudding to be. Some prefer it on the sweeter side, while others may prefer a less sugary version.
- Serving Suggestions: This pudding can be enjoyed as a dessert or even as a warm snack on chilly winter evenings. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of chai.
Why Rajasthani Almond Pudding is Perfect for Winter:
Rajasthan’s cold winters are the ideal time to enjoy rich, hearty dishes that help you stay warm. The combination of ghee, milk, and almonds is packed with energy and nutrients that provide warmth and comfort. The addition of dry fruits makes it even more nutritious, making it a perfect winter treat to keep you energized.
This Rajasthani-style almond pudding is bound to impress anyone who tastes it. The flavors are rich and aromatic, while the creamy texture will make you want to keep licking your fingers. So, the next time you’re looking to indulge in something sweet and comforting, try making this easy and flavorful Badam Halwa at home and treat your loved ones to a slice of Rajasthani tradition!
Enjoy this traditional Rajasthani dessert and let the warmth of its taste fill your heart and home this winter!
