How to Make Gajar ka Halwa – Traditional Indian Carrot Pudding Recipe (British English Version)

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Introduction

Gajar ka Halwa, also known as Carrot Halwa, is one of the most beloved Indian desserts. Made with freshly grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, it’s a rich and indulgent treat often served during festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Holi.

This traditional sweet dish is comforting, fragrant, and relatively simple to prepare. In this blog post, you’ll learn how to make Gajar ka Halwa at home using ingredients easily found in UK supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, or Morrisons. The recipe uses British English language, includes step-by-step instructions, and follows full Google SEO best practices.

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Table of Contents

1. What is Gajar ka Halwa?

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

3. Step-by-Step Recipe

4. Variations (Vegan & Low-Sugar Options)

5. Tips for the Perfect Halwa

6. Serving Suggestions

7. Storage & Reheating

8. Nutritional Information

9. Final Thoughts

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1. What is Gajar ka Halwa?

Gajar ka Halwa (गाजर का हलवा), literally meaning carrot pudding, originates from North India and is traditionally made during the winter months when red carrots are in season. It is prepared by slowly simmering grated carrots in full-fat milk, then sweetened with sugar and flavoured with cardamom, ghee (clarified butter), and nuts.

It is a luxurious dessert often served warm and is a staple at Indian weddings and festive celebrations.

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2. Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients are available in major UK supermarkets or South Asian grocery stores.

Main Ingredients:

500g carrots (preferably red if available, or standard orange carrots)

500ml full-fat milk

4 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

2–3 tbsp ghee (or unsalted butter)

4–5 green cardamoms, crushed or ½ tsp cardamom powder

A pinch of salt (to balance flavour)

For Garnish (Optional but Recommended):

10–12 cashew nuts

10–12 almonds, chopped or slivered

10–15 raisins

2 tbsp chopped pistachios (optional)

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3. Step-by-Step Gajar ka Halwa Recipe

This is a classic method, slow-cooked for the richest flavour. It takes about 45 minutes but the result is well worth it.

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Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Wash, peel, and grate the carrots using a hand grater or food processor.

You should have about 3–4 cups of grated carrot.

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Step 2: Sauté the Carrots in Ghee

1. Heat 2 tbsp of ghee in a non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.

2. Add the grated carrots.

3. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften and their raw aroma fades.

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Step 3: Add Milk and Cook

1. Pour in the full-fat milk.

2. Bring it to a boil while stirring occasionally.

3. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring regularly, until the milk has mostly evaporated and the mixture thickens.

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Step 4: Add Sugar and Cardamom

1. Add sugar and mix well. The mixture will loosen slightly.

2. Cook on medium-low heat for another 8–10 minutes, stirring often.

3. Add cardamom powder or crushed pods. Stir to combine.

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Step 5: Finish with Ghee and Nuts

1. Add the remaining 1 tbsp ghee and stir well.

2. In a separate small pan, lightly fry the nuts and raisins in a bit of ghee until golden.

3. Fold them into the halwa or use as garnish when serving.

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4. Variations

✅ Vegan Gajar ka Halwa

Use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.

Replace ghee with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

✅ Low-Sugar Version

Reduce sugar quantity or use stevia or erythritol in moderation.

You can also rely on the natural sweetness of carrots and milk.

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5. Tips for the Perfect Halwa

✅ Use fresh, tender carrots – they cook faster and taste sweeter.

✅ Always use full-fat milk for a creamy, traditional texture.

✅ Stir regularly to avoid burning at the base.

✅ Do not cover the pan while cooking – evaporation is key.

✅ Add ghee towards the end for best flavour and richness.

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6. Serving Suggestions

Serve warm in bowls after dinner.

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a modern twist.

Pair with masala chai or cardamom tea.

Decorate with silver leaf or edible flowers for special occasions.

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7. Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Can be frozen for up to a month in portions.

Reheating: Microwave in 30-second intervals or heat gently on the hob with a splash of milk or water.

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8. Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient Amount

Calories 180–220 kcal

Carbohydrates 20–25g

Protein 4–6g

Fat 10–12g

Sugar 12–16g

Fibre 2g

Salt 0.1g

Note: Based on a moderate portion with milk and ghee.

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9. Final Thoughts

Making Gajar ka Halwa at home is a rewarding experience that brings a touch of tradition and warmth to your kitchen. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed on a cold winter evening, this classic dessert offers comfort, sweetness, and nostalgia in every bite.

With ingredients easily found in the UK and simple steps to follow, even beginners can master this dish. The slow-cooked richness of milk and carrots, combined with aromatic cardamom and ghee, makes this a dessert to remember.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

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