Semolina Halwa (Suji Halwa)

Step 1: Heat Ghee

Place a pan on the stove. Add 3-4 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter) to the pan and let it melt and heat up.

Step 2: Roast Semolina

Add 1 cup of semolina to the heated ghee. Stir continuously with a ladle on medium heat until the semolina turns golden brown, which takes approximately 5-7 minutes. Ensure it's evenly roasted.

Step 3: Add Sugar

Once the semolina is roasted to a golden brown color, add 1 cup of sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine the sugar with the semolina.

Step 4: Add Water

Carefully and slowly pour 4 cups of warm water into the semolina and sugar mixture while stirring continuously. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble and steam.

Step 5: Cook Halwa

Continue stirring and cooking the mixture on medium heat until it thickens and absorbs all the water, forming a halwa consistency. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Add More Ghee

Add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of ghee to the halwa and mix it in thoroughly until it's well incorporated and gives a glossy finish.

Step 7: Offer to Agni Dev

Turn off the stove. As a traditional gesture, take a small spoonful of halwa and offer it to Agni Dev (the fire god) by placing it over the flame of the stove.

Step 8: Serve

Stir the halwa one last time. The divine and healthy semolina halwa is now ready to be served hot.

• Stir the semolina continuously while roasting to prevent burning and ensure even browning.

• Add water slowly and carefully to avoid splattering, especially on medium heat.

• Adjust sugar quantity according to your preference.

• Add chopped nuts (almonds, cashews) or raisins for added texture and flavor.

• Incorporate cardamom powder for an aromatic touch.

• Use milk instead of water for a richer halwa.