Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Sautéing Spices

   Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a large pan. Add 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder and a few cardamom pods (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. 2.Adding Carrots

   Add 1 kg of grated carrots to the pan.

3. 3.Mixing Carrots

   Mix the grated carrots well with the ghee and cardamom, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. 4.First Cook

   Cover the pan with a lid and cook the carrots on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their moisture.

5. 5.Stirring Carrots

   Uncover the pan and stir the carrots to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

6. 6.Adding Sugar

   Add 1.5 cups of sugar to the softened carrots.

7. 7.Mixing Sugar

   Mix the sugar thoroughly with the carrots. The sugar will start to dissolve and release more liquid.

8. 8.Second Cook

   Cover the pan again and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve and combine with the carrots.

9. 9.Evaporating Moisture

   Uncover the pan and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the halwa thickens.

10. 10.Adding Milk Solids

    Add 1.5 cups of milk powder (or grated khoya) to the carrot mixture.

11. 11.Final Cooking

    Mix well until the milk powder is fully incorporated and the halwa comes together, cooking for another 7-10 minutes until it reaches a thick, fudgy consistency and starts leaving the sides of the pan.

12. 12.Frying Almonds

    In a separate small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee and fry 1/2 cup of almonds until they are lightly golden brown. Set aside.

13. 13.Layering Halwa (Bottom Khoya)

    Take a serving dish and spread a layer of 1/2 cup of grated khoya or paneer at the bottom.

14. 14.Layering Halwa (First Halwa Layer)

    Add a generous layer of the prepared Gajar Halwa over the grated khoya/paneer.

15. 15.Layering Halwa (Top Khoya)

    Add another layer of the remaining 1/2 cup of grated khoya or paneer on top of the halwa.

16. 16.Garnishing with Almonds

    Garnish the Gajar Halwa with the fried almonds.

17. 17.Serve

    Serve the Gajar Halwa warm.