Carrot - Almond Halwa

 Happy Shivaratri to all my readers.

Carrot + Almonds in any dessert = Delicious
Carrot Halwa + Almond Halwa = Super delicious

Have you ever tried to combine the two mouthwatering desserts from India? The rich and creamy almond (badam) halwa and the carrot (gajar) halwa that happens to be a perennial favorite of masses, including the female leads of Hindi cinema during 70s & 80s. :) 
When you do so, you will end up with this 'melts in your mouth' kind delectable dessert. 

Ingredients for 4 generous servings:

Ghee - 2 -3 Tbsp
Grated carrots - 5 cups (about 6 large carrots)

Almonds - 1/2 cup

Milk - 1.5 cup
Sugar - 3/4 to 1 cup (depending upon the sweetness preferred)

Cardamom powder - 1 tsp

Nuts to garnish (optional)

And preferably a nonstick pan

Method:

1. Heat ghee in a non stick pan or a thick bottomed vessel and add the grated carrots. Sauté on medium flame for 8 - 10 minutes.

2. In the mean while, place almonds with a little water in the microwave for about 3 minutes. Throw away the water and skin the almonds. Or soak the almonds for about an hour and remove the almond skins. If you wish to retain the skin, skip step 2.

3. Grind the almonds into a paste using milk as needed.

4. Add the almond paste + remaining milk to carrot and keep on cooking till it comes together. Don't forget to stir in between to avoid scorching.

5. Now add sugar and cardamom powder to the pan. Combine the mixture well and check the taste. Add extra sugar if needed. Continue to cook until the mixture becomes thicker while stirring in between. Turn off the stove and garnish with nuts, if desired.

Serve warm or chilled.

This is going to Priya Mitharwal's Celebrate Sweets - Warm Desserts, an event originally started by Nivedita.

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