Besan Halwa Recipe - Indian Sweet

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, add 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, 1 pinch of yellow food color, juice from half a lemon, and 3 green cardamoms. Mix well and cook on low flame until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly, forming a light, bubbly consistency. The syrup should be ready by around the 1:39 mark.

Step 2: Roast the Gram Flour (Besan)

In a large pan or wok, add 1 cup of ghee. Once the ghee is melted, add 1 and a half cups of sifted gram flour (besan). Fry the besan well on medium-low heat, stirring continuously with a spatula, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This process should take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Combine and Cook the Halwa

Carefully pour the prepared sugar syrup into the roasted besan mixture. Mix thoroughly and cook for 20 to 25 minutes on low heat, stirring constantly, until the halwa thickens, becomes crumbly, and starts to separate from the sides of the pan. The halwa will achieve a well-prepared, granular texture.

Step 4: Set and Garnish

Grease a serving plate or tray with a little oil. Transfer the cooked halwa onto the greased plate and spread it evenly using a spatula. Press it down gently to set it. Finally, garnish with cashews, almonds, and walnuts. Once cooled slightly, cut into squares or desired shapes before serving.

• Ensure the besan is fried thoroughly to avoid a raw taste.

• Stir continuously when cooking the halwa to prevent sticking and burning.

• Adjust sugar to your taste preference.

• Add a pinch of saffron for extra flavor and color.

• Incorporate other nuts like pistachios or pecans.

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.