Rava Sheera, also known as Sooji Halwa, is a popular Indian dessert made with semolina (rava), ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and cardamom. It is a simple, yet flavorful treat, often enjoyed during festivals, special occasions, or as a quick and satisfying snack. This dish is known for its rich texture and sweet, aromatic flavor.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Rava Sheera:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rava (semolina)
- ½ cup ghee (clarified butter)
- ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1½ cups water (or 1 cup water + ½ cup milk for a richer flavor)
- 4-5 cashews (chopped or whole)
- 4-5 almonds (chopped or whole)
- 2-3 cardamom pods (crushed)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- A few raisins (optional)
Instructions:
- Roast the Rava:
- Heat a pan or wok on medium heat and add the ghee.
- Once the ghee is hot, add the rava (semolina). Stir continuously to ensure that the rava does not burn.
- Roast the rava in ghee until it turns light golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This step is important as it gives the sheera its rich flavor and texture. Set the roasted rava aside.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- In a separate pan, heat water (and milk if using) along with the sugar.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. You can also add cardamom powder and saffron strands to the syrup at this point.
- Once the syrup starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Keep the syrup warm.
- Cook the Rava:
- In the pan with roasted rava, add the warm sugar syrup slowly, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- The rava will absorb the syrup and start to thicken. Continue stirring to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Add the crushed cardamom, and if you like, toss in some chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins for a crunchy texture.
- Simmer:
- Allow the mixture to cook on low heat for 3-5 minutes, until the ghee begins to separate from the sheera, and the consistency is slightly thickened.
- Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Serve:
- Once the sheera is ready, remove it from the heat. Serve hot or warm, garnished with additional nuts and raisins if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Rava Sheera:
- Roast the rava properly: The key to a good Rava Sheera is in the roasting of the rava. Be patient and roast it until it turns golden brown, as this enhances the flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness: You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference. Some like it on the sweeter side, while others prefer a more subtle sweetness.
- Use full-fat milk for richness: For an extra indulgent version, you can use full-fat milk or even coconut milk for a unique flavor twist.
- Nuts and dry fruits: Adding a variety of nuts like cashews, almonds, and raisins adds texture and richness to the sheera. You can also experiment with other nuts like pistachios.
Variations:
- Saffron Rava Sheera: Add saffron strands soaked in warm milk for a luxurious golden color and aromatic flavor.
- Fruit Rava Sheera: You can add chopped fruits like bananas or mangoes to make the dessert more flavorful.
- Vegan Rava Sheera: Replace ghee with coconut oil or any plant-based oil to make it vegan-friendly.
Conclusion:
Rava Sheera is a comforting and versatile Indian dessert that can be made in under 30 minutes. Its smooth, rich texture and delightful taste make it a favorite for both children and adults. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual treat, this sweet dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm and indulgent.
