Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Sugar Syrup

   In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Add 1 teaspoon of yellow food color and 3-4 cardamom pods. Place the saucepan on medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, continue to cook the syrup for 1 to 1.5 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. 2.Roast the Besan

   In a separate large pan or wok, add 1 cup of ghee and let it melt over medium heat. Ensure the ghee is not too hot. Add 3 cups of besan (gram flour) to the melted ghee. Begin stirring continuously, ensuring the besan blends well with the ghee. Continue stirring on medium heat for about 5 minutes. The besan will gradually change color, become lighter, and release a fragrant aroma, indicating it's properly roasted. If you stop stirring for a few seconds, you'll notice the bottom layer starts to brown.

3. 3.Combine Besan and Syrup

   Once the besan is perfectly roasted, turn off the heat. Continue stirring the besan for a few minutes to release some of its heat, but do not let it cool completely. Pour the prepared sugar syrup into the roasted besan mixture. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until the syrup is fully incorporated and the mixture becomes smooth and silky, with no lumps.

4. 4.Final Cooking and Setting

   Turn the heat back on to a very low (dum) flame. Cook the halwa for exactly 1 minute, stirring continuously. The halwa will start to leave the sides of the pan, indicating it's ready. Turn off the heat and continue stirring the halwa in the pan for about 10-15 minutes to allow it to cool slightly and thicken further. This is crucial for it to set properly.

5. 5.Transfer to Tray and Garnish

   Transfer the warm halwa mixture into a tray. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the tray. Sprinkle sliced almonds generously over the top of the halwa. Gently press the almonds into the halwa with the back of the spatula to ensure they stick. Place the tray in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the halwa to set.

6. 6.Cut and Serve

   After refrigeration, the halwa will be set but still slightly warm. This is the ideal time to cut it into desired shapes. Use a sharp knife to cut the halwa into squares or diamond shapes. Carefully lift each piece from the tray using the tip of the knife. Serve your delicious Besan Halwa Tukri and enjoy!