Besan Halwa is a rich, aromatic, and comforting Indian dessert made from roasted gram flour, ghee, sugar, and milk or water. It is perfect for festivals, special occasions, or just when you crave a warm, sweet treat. The slow roasting of besan in ghee releases a nutty aroma, making this halwa irresistible. Many Indian households enjoy this dish as a quick yet indulgent dessert, especially during winters. According to NDTV Food, this traditional sweet is not only delicious but also packed with energy and warmth, making it a great choice for colder months.
Origin Besan (Gram Flour) Halwa
Besan Halwa has deep roots in Indian cuisine, often prepared as a prasad (offering) during religious ceremonies and festive occasions. Originating from North India, this halwa has been a staple in kitchens for generations, especially in Punjab and Rajasthan. Traditionally, it was considered a nutritious dish, given the high protein content of gram flour and the warmth of ghee. Over time, different variations of besan halwa have emerged, incorporating nuts, saffron, or even cardamom for enhanced flavors. To learn more about the cultural significance of besan-based sweets.
What I Love About This Recipe
What I love about this besan halwa recipe is its simplicity and deep, comforting flavors. The nutty aroma of roasted gram flour combined with the richness of ghee creates a delightful taste that lingers on the palate. It’s a perfect dessert to prepare in under 30 minutes, using basic pantry ingredients. The halwa is also versatile—you can adjust the sweetness, add dry fruits for extra crunch, or even swap sugar with jaggery for a healthier twist. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a warm and nourishing dessert that brings back nostalgic childhood memories.
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Besan (Gram Flour) Halwa
Course: Holi Recipie8
servings30
minutes35
minutes223
kcalIngredients
1 cup besan (gram flour)
½ cup ghee (clarified butter)
¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1½ cups milk or water
½ teaspoon cardamom powder
2 tablespoons chopped almonds or cashews (optional)
1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Directions
- Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on low to medium heat.
- Add besan and roast it, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This takes about 10-12 minutes.
- In a separate pan, warm milk or water and dissolve sugar in it. Keep aside.
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the roasted besan, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue cooking while stirring until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
- Add cardamom powder, chopped nuts, and raisins, then mix well.
- Serve warm, garnished with saffron strands and additional nuts if desired.
Notes
- Stir continuously while roasting besan to prevent it from burning.
- Adjust the amount of ghee based on your preference for richness.
