Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Soak Split Chickpeas

   Take 2 cups of split chickpeas (chana dal) and soak them in water for 3-4 hours. After soaking, the dal should be soft and doubled in size. Drain the water.

2. 2.Boil Split Chickpeas in Milk

   Add the soaked and drained split chickpeas to a pan. Pour in 3 glasses (approximately 750 ml) of milk. Cook on a low flame until the lentils are tender, which will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Ensure about half a cup of milk or water remains in the pan.

3. 3.Make Dal Paste

   Transfer the boiled dal to a chopper or food processor. Blend it into a fine paste. If needed, add a little water or milk to help with blending.

4. 4.Fry Dal Paste in Ghee

   In a large pan, melt 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of ghee. Add the dal paste to the melted ghee. Cook on a low-medium flame for 20-25 minutes, continuously stirring and breaking up any lumps, until the paste absorbs the ghee and starts to tighten and change color to a beautiful golden hue.

5. 5.Add Condensed Milk, Sugar, and Milk

   Once the dal paste is well-fried and soft, add 1 cup of condensed milk, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of milk. Mix everything thoroughly. The mixture will become thinner again.

6. 6.Continue Cooking and Adjust Sweetness

   Continue cooking on low-medium flame for another 15 minutes, stirring constantly. At this stage, taste the halwa and add an additional 1/2 cup of sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Continue cooking until the halwa thickens again and leaves the sides of the pan.

7. 7.Add Food Color and Flavorings

   Add food color (red or orange) as desired for a vibrant look. Mix well until the color is evenly distributed. Stir in 1 teaspoon of green cardamom powder, 3 tablespoons of chopped almonds, and 3 tablespoons of chopped pistachios. Mix thoroughly.

8. 8.Set the Halwa

   Prepare a round pizza pan (or any square/rectangular tray) by greasing it with oil and lining it with parchment paper. Transfer the hot halwa mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands (carefully, as it's hot) to smooth and level the halwa evenly.

9. 9.Cut and Garnish

   While the halwa is still warm, use a knife to cut it into desired shapes (e.g., diamond or square pieces). Garnish the top with additional chopped almonds and pistachios, pressing them lightly into the halwa to ensure they stick.

10. 10.Chill and Serve

    Allow the halwa to cool and set completely at room temperature for 4-5 hours, or in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Once set, carefully remove the pieces from the pan. Enjoy your delicious Chana Dal Tukri Halwa!