Besan Halwa (Chickpea Flour Halwa) – Soft & Shiny

Step 1: Dry Roast Chickpea Flour

Heat a pan on low to medium flame. Add 1 cup of chickpea flour (besan) and dry roast it for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Transfer the roasted besan to a separate bowl and set aside. Turn off the flame.

Step 2: Prepare Sugar Syrup

In a separate pot, add 2 cups of water and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Place it on high flame. Add 6-7 saffron strands and a pinch of orange food color. Stir well until the sugar completely dissolves. Once dissolved, turn off the flame and keep the syrup aside.

Step 3: Roast Besan with Fat

Wipe the pan clean and place it back on low to medium flame. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Once the butter melts, add the previously dry-roasted besan. Stir constantly for about 10-12 minutes. The besan will gradually change color and become smoother. Add 1 more tablespoon of oil and stir, then add another 1 tablespoon of oil and stir until the mixture is loose and shiny, indicating the oil has been released.

Step 4: Combine with Sugar Syrup

Reduce the flame to low. Gradually add the prepared sugar syrup to the roasted besan mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Use a whisk to ensure all small lumps are removed and the mixture is smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder and mix well.

Step 5: Cook Until Thick and Shiny

Continue stirring the halwa on low flame until it thickens, becomes shiny, and starts to leave the sides of the pan. This indicates it's perfectly cooked and has a smooth, silky texture.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the hot Besan Halwa to a serving plate. Garnish generously with chopped almonds. Serve warm and enjoy!

• Dry roasting the besan first helps achieve a grainy texture and prevents lumps.

• Stir constantly when roasting besan with butter/oil to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

• Add sugar syrup gradually and whisk vigorously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth halwa.

• Adjust sugar quantity to your preference; 3/4 cup is recommended for a balanced sweetness.

• Add chopped pistachios along with almonds for garnish.

• Substitute unsalted butter with ghee for a more traditional flavor.