Carrot Halva

Carrot Halva Recipe - Traditional Dish from Nepal and Pakistan

Region / culture: Nepal, Pakistan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 4.5 hours | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Carrot Halva is a popular Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and nuts. It is a sweet and rich dish that is often served during special occasions and festivals.

History

Carrot Halva has been a traditional dessert in India for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northern regions of India, where carrots are a common vegetable. Over time, the recipe has evolved and become a favorite dessert in many Indian households.

Ingredients

4 lb (1.81 kg) carrots
0.5 gallons (1.89 liters) milk
2 cups sugar
2 cups carnation milk powder
1 cup oil
to taste nuts

How to prepare

Clean and grate the carrots. Heat the milk until it boils, then add the carrots.
Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until most of the liquid has evaporated (approximately 3 to 4 hours).
Add the oil and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the carrots are well roasted (about 0.5 hour).
Mix in the powdered milk and sugar, and cook until all the liquid has evaporated and the mixture no longer sticks to the sides.
Stir in the nuts and raisins, then remove from heat. Transfer to a serving dish and serve either warm or cold.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Variations

Add a pinch of saffron for a luxurious flavor.
Substitute sugar with jaggery for a more traditional taste.
Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh and sweet carrots for the best flavor.

- Stir the mixture constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference.

- Roast the carrots well to enhance the flavor of the halva.

- Add a pinch of cardamom powder for a fragrant touch.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot Halva can be served warm or cold, garnished with additional nuts or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs well with a cup of chai tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

Grate the carrots finely for a smoother texture.

- Cook the halva on low heat to prevent burning.

- Stir the mixture continuously to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ghee instead of oil for a richer flavor.

- Replace milk powder with condensed milk for a creamier texture.

- Swap almonds for cashews or pistachios for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Carrot Halva can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Carrot Halva in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a dusting of cinnamon for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Carrot Halva with a cup of masala chai or a glass of sweet lassi for a satisfying dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Carrot Halva in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Carrot Halva contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Carrot Halva is a high-carbohydrate dessert due to the sugar and carrots used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The oil and nuts used in Carrot Halva contribute to its fat content. Each serving contains around 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Carrot Halva provides a small amount of protein, with each serving containing about 5 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, which are all beneficial for overall health. Nuts also provide essential nutrients such as magnesium and vitamin E.

Alergens

Carrot Halva contains nuts, which may be allergenic to some individuals. Be cautious if you have nut allergies.

Summary

Carrot Halva is a sweet and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It provides a small amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Carrot Halva is a delicious and decadent Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and nuts. It is a sweet and rich dish that is perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Carrot Halva. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother, who was known for her incredible cooking skills, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for a family gathering.

As I watched her expertly grate carrots and stir them into a mixture of ghee, sugar, and cardamom, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the magic she was creating. The sweet aroma of the cooking carrots filled the kitchen, and I knew that this was a recipe I had to learn.

"Grandma, how did you learn to make this delicious dessert?" I asked, my curiosity getting the best of me.

My grandmother smiled and replied, "Oh, my dear, this recipe has been passed down in our family for generations. I learned it from my own grandmother when I was just a young girl, and now I am passing it on to you."

I was thrilled at the thought of carrying on this family tradition, and I eagerly soaked up every detail of the recipe as my grandmother patiently explained each step. From grating the carrots just right to adding the perfect amount of sugar and spices, she guided me through the process with gentle encouragement.

As the Carrot Halva slowly cooked on the stove, filling the kitchen with its irresistible scent, my grandmother shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had in turn learned it from her mother before her. Each generation had added their own special touch to the recipe, creating a unique and cherished tradition that had been passed down through the years.

I listened intently, savoring not only the delicious dessert that was taking shape before my eyes but also the rich history and family connections that came along with it. I realized that this recipe was more than just a sweet treat – it was a link to my past, a way to connect with generations of women who had come before me.

As the Carrot Halva finally finished cooking and my grandmother carefully plated it with a sprinkling of chopped nuts and a drizzle of ghee, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart. From that day on, I made it a point to learn as many traditional recipes from my grandmother as I could, eager to carry on the culinary legacy of our family for future generations to enjoy.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my cooking skills, mastering each recipe with the same dedication and love that my grandmother had shown me. The Carrot Halva became a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, always eliciting smiles and satisfied sighs from those who tasted it.

One day, as I was preparing the dessert for a gathering of my own, my young granddaughter approached me with wide eyes and a curious expression.

"Grandma, how did you learn to make this delicious Carrot Halva?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.

I smiled, my heart full of pride and nostalgia as I replied, "Oh, my dear, this recipe has been passed down in our family for generations. I learned it from my own grandmother when I was just a young girl, and now I am passing it on to you."

And so the tradition continued, with each new generation learning the recipe for Carrot Halva and adding their own special touch to it. As I watched my granddaughter carefully grate carrots and stir them into the mixture, I knew that this dessert would always hold a special place in our family's history, connecting us to our past and to each other in a deliciously sweet way.