Make Gajar Ka Halwa Without Sugar: A Healthier Dessert Option

Ingredients:

• Carrots (Gajar): 1 kg, finely grated
• Full-Fat Milk: 1 liter
• Ghee: 2 tablespoons
• Jaggery (grated) or Dates Paste: 1 cup
• Cardamom Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Chopped Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, and cashews as desired
• Raisins: 2 tablespoons

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

• Wash, peel, and grate the carrots finely. Use fresh and tender carrots for the best taste.
• Heat a thick-bottomed pan or kadhai over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of ghee.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots

• Add the grated carrots to the pan and sauté them in ghee for 5-7 minutes. This removes the raw smell and enhances their flavor.
• The carrots will shrink slightly as they release water during cooking.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cook

• Pour the full-fat milk into the pan, ensuring the carrots are fully immersed.
• Bring the mixture to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Let the mixture cook until the milk reduces and thickens, blending well with the carrots. This process may take 30-40 minutes.

Step 4: Sweeten Naturally

• Once the milk is almost absorbed, add grated jaggery or dates paste. Mix well to ensure the sweetener dissolves uniformly.
• Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.

Step 5: Add Flavor and Texture

• Stir in cardamom powder for aroma.
• Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee in a small pan. Add chopped nuts and raisins, sautéing them lightly until aromatic.
• Mix the nuts and raisins into the halwa.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Transfer the gajar ka halwa to a serving dish.
• Garnish with additional chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cardamom powder.
• Serve warm or cold as per preference.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use red or Delhi carrots during the winter season for authentic flavor.
• Adjust the quantity of jaggery or dates paste according to your sweetness preference.
• Ensure the jaggery is added only after the milk has reduced to avoid curdling.

Enjoy your healthier, sugar-free gajar ka halwa, perfect for guilt-free indulgence.