Delhi, the capital city of India, is a food lover’s paradise. From street food to fine dining, the city offers a diverse range of culinary experiences.
One of the most popular and sought-after desserts in Gajar Halwa in old Delhi, a traditional Indian sweet made with carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee.
This delectable dessert is especially popular during the winter months when Delhi’s markets are flooded with fresh, juicy carrots.
If you’re a foodie looking to indulge in the best Gajar Halwa in Delhi, then you’re in for a treat. The city is home to several iconic sweet shops and restaurants that serve up this classic dessert in its most authentic and delicious form.
One such place is Ghantewala Halwai, located in the bustling Chandni Chowk area. This 200-year-old sweet shop is renowned for its traditional Indian sweets, and their Gajar Halwa is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. The rich and creamy texture of their Gajar Halwa, coupled with the perfect balance of sweetness and the aroma of cardamom, makes it a truly decadent indulgence.
Another iconic spot for Gajar Halwa in Delhi is Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners in Fatehpuri. This heritage sweet shop has been serving up delectable sweets since 1901 and is especially known for its mouth-watering Gajar Halwa. Made using the finest quality carrots and traditional cooking methods, their Gajar Halwa is a true celebration of flavors and textures.
For those looking for a more modern twist on this classic dessert, the famous restaurant chain Karim’s offers a unique take on Gajar Halwa. Their version includes generous portions of nuts and dried fruits, adding a delightful crunch and extra layers of flavor to the dish. Served hot and fresh, this Gajar Halwa is truly a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, then head to the fine dining restaurants in Delhi that also serve up this traditional dessert with a gourmet twist. With ingredients sourced from the finest local producers and prepared by skilled chefs, these restaurants offer a sophisticated take on Gajar Halwa that is bound to impress even the most discerning food connoisseurs.
No matter where you choose to indulge in the best Gajar Halwa in Delhi, you’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings and experience a truly delightful culinary journey. So, the next time you’re in the capital city, make sure to treat yourself to this heavenly dessert and savor the flavors of India’s rich culinary heritage.
Recipe for your Gajar Halwa
Ingredients:
- 4 cups grated carrots
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- Raisins for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Grate the Carrots: Peel and grate the carrots using a fine grater. You can also use a food processor for this step.
- Cooking Carrots: In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the grated carrots and milk. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmering: Allow the mixture to simmer until the carrots are cooked and the milk has evaporated, leaving a thick consistency. This may take about 20-25 minutes.
- Adding Sugar: Add sugar to the carrots and mix well. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring regularly until the sugar is completely dissolved, and the mixture thickens.
- Ghee and Nuts: In a separate small pan, heat ghee. Add chopped nuts and sauté until they turn golden. Add this ghee-nut mixture to the carrot mixture and stir well.
- Flavoring: Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using). Mix thoroughly to incorporate the flavors.
- Final Cooking: Continue to cook the Gajar Halwa on low heat until it reaches a halwa consistency. The ghee should start to separate from the mixture, indicating it’s ready.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional chopped nuts and raisins if desired.
- Serve: Serve Gajar Halwa warm. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy your homemade Gajar Halwa!
