
Gajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa)
Gajar ka halwa carrot halwa represents traditional Indian dessert that's deliciously rich and creamy, prepared using whole ingredients for authentic flavor and texture. This beloved sweet showcases how vegetables can be transformed into luxurious desserts through traditional cooking techniques and proper ingredient combinations. The deliciously rich nature comes from slow cooking that concentrates flavors while creating the signature creamy texture. This traditional preparation honors generations of Indian dessert-making expertise while using whole ingredients for superior taste and nutrition. The creamy consistency and rich flavors make this halwa perfect for special occasions and family celebrations when authentic Indian sweets are desired.

Carrot halwa, or gajar ka halwa, is a traditional Indian dessert that’s deliciously rich and creamy. This recipe uses whole milk, not condensed milk. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a real treat!
Ingredients
2 tablespoons ghee or oil
2 pounds carrots, grated
1 ½ quarts whole milk
2 cups white sugar
½ cup raisins or sultanas
1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
1 pinch saffron threads
8 tablespoons chopped pistachio nuts
Directions
Heat ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat and add carrots. Cook and stir briefly, about 3 minutes. Pour in milk and increase heat; bring to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, and stirring occasionally until moisture evaporates, about 1 hour.
Bring carrot mixture back to a boil; add sugar, raisins, cardamom, and saffron. Cook and stir until mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes.
Ladle carrot halwa into 8 individual serving dishes. Top each serving with 1 tablespoon pistachios. Serve warm or chill before serving.
Tips
Use a hand grater to prepare the carrots. Using a food processor makes them too watery.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
459 | Calories |
14g | Fat |
80g | Carbs |
9g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings Per Recipe 8 | |
Calories 459 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 14g | 17% |
Saturated Fat 4g | 21% |
Cholesterol 18mg | 6% |
Sodium 187mg | 8% |
Total Carbohydrate 80g | 29% |
Dietary Fiber 5g | 16% |
Total Sugars 70g | |
Protein 9g | 18% |
Vitamin C 7mg | 8% |
Calcium 260mg | 20% |
Iron 1mg | 6% |
Potassium 792mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.