In Indian families, it is customary to prepare sweets for any auspicious occasion, and halwa is one of the most popular desserts. Besides traditional varieties such as dry cereal, carrot, and moong bean halwa, there are other types, for example, made from zucchini, peas, and tomatoes. However, there is also halwa made from turmeric itself.
Benefits and Traditions of Rajasthani Dessert
The famous turmeric halwa from Rajasthan is valued not only for its taste but also for its high nutritional value. It is considered a superfood, especially beneficial for boosting immunity, combating fatigue, weakness, or during seasonal changes.
This traditional dessert, which is prepared in many homes in Rajasthan using fresh raw turmeric, ghee, milk, and dried fruits, has a long history and is often made during festivals and special occasions.
Step-by-Step Preparation Recipe
If you have not tried turmeric halwa yet, you can make it at home in just a few minutes by following this simple recipe.
Cooking Process
First, you need to prepare the turmeric: it should be thoroughly washed and cleaned, and then either grated or blended with a small amount of milk.
Next, heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot and fry the ground turmeric over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring constantly. This process helps to remove the raw smell of the turmeric.
After that, add the milk to the pot and stir thoroughly with the turmeric, cooking over low heat until most of the milk evaporates.
Adding Ingredients
At this stage, incorporate mawa (condensed milk) and sugar or grated jaggery into the halwa. Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves; after that, the halwa will become slightly runnier, but it will thicken again after a few minutes.
Then, add cardamom powder, almonds, cashews, pistachios, and raisins, and cook for another 2–3 minutes. When the halwa starts to separate from the sides and thickens well, turn off the heat. The dessert is served hot, sprinkled with a little oil and chopped nuts on top.
