Gur Ka Halwa: A Winter Delight

Winter is the perfect season to indulge in warm, rich desserts, and Gur Ka Halwa is a timeless favorite in Indian households. This wholesome dessert, made with jaggery, ghee, and semolina (sooji), not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a cozy warmth on chilly days. Here’s everything you need to know about preparing this easy and delicious dish.

Ingredients

• ½ cup semolina (sooji)
• ½ cup jaggery (gur)
• ¼ cup ghee
• 1½ cups water
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
• ¼ tsp cardamom powder

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Jaggery Syrup

In a pan, mix water and jaggery. Heat until the jaggery dissolves completely. Strain to remove impurities and set it aside.

2. Roast the Semolina

In another pan, heat ghee on medium flame. Add semolina and roast it until it turns golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma.

3. Combine Ingredients

Slowly pour the prepared jaggery syrup into the roasted semolina while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

4. Cook to Perfection

Stir the mixture until it thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan. Add cardamom powder and mix well.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped nuts for added texture and cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot and relish this winter-special treat.

Why Jaggery in Winters?

Jaggery, known for its earthy sweetness and health benefits, is ideal for the winter months. It helps regulate body temperature, provides quick energy, and is rich in iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. Its unrefined nature makes it a healthier alternative to sugar, adding a caramel-like flavor to recipes

Tips for Perfect Halwa

1. Use fresh, high-quality jaggery for better taste.
2. Roast semolina patiently on medium heat to avoid burning.
3. Add a pinch of saffron for an aromatic twist.

Conclusion

Gur Ka Halwa is more than just a dessert—it’s a cultural staple that evokes memories of family gatherings and warm kitchen aromas during winters. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect for celebrating the season of comfort food.