How to Make Carrot Halwa

Grate the carrots finely.

Carrot halwa is a dessert from northern India. It's a rich, pudding-style dessert made with grated carrots, sweetened milk and butter. Carrot halwa is often served at weddings and other special celebrations, but you can enjoy this dish on any occasion.

Things You'll Need

• 2 lbs. fresh carrots
• 14-oz. can sweetened condensed milk
• 12-oz. can evaporated milk
• 2 tsp. ground cardamom
• 4 tbsp. ghee or fresh butter
• 5 tbsp. powdered milk
• 1 cup raisins
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan

Instructions

1. Grate the carrots.

2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, ground cardamom and carrots. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly.

3. Reduce the heat and continue stirring. Cook the carrot mixture over low heat 30-45 minutes or until the milk is completely absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and add sweetened condensed milk and butter to the pan. Stir vigorously until well blended. Return the pan to low heat; continue cooking until the carrots become very soft and dry.

5. In small bowl, combine powdered milk with a few spoons of water to make a paste.

6. Add the milk "paste" to the carrot mixture in small spoonfuls, stirring gently after each addition. Stir in the raisins.

7. Place the dessert in a covered dish and store in the refrigerator for at least eight to 10 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

Tips & Warnings

• Carrot halwa can be served warm or cold.

• Carrot halwa may be garnished with fresh whipped cream or ice cream.

• Add pistachios, walnuts or cashews, if desired.

• Carrot halwa is traditionally made with ghee, but butter can be used as a substitute.

• The carrot and milk mixture must be stirred constantly to avoid sticking and burning.

• Only add the condensed milk after the evaporated milk is completely absorbed.

References

• DiwaliCelebrations.net: How to Make Carrot Halwa