- 1
Start with all the ingredients for coconut halwa-fresh grated coconut 2 cups, sugar or jaggery 1 cup, milk or condensed milk to make it richer, 1 cup, ghee 2 Tbsp, cardamom powder 1/4 Tsp, chopped nuts like almonds, cashews, or pistachios, for garnishing. You may add a few strands of saffron soaked in warm milk if you want to feel a little more luxurious.
- 2
Fresh coconuts will provide the best flavours and textures. Frozen or desiccated coconuts should be rehydrated by soaking in warm water or milk for a few minutes.
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Preparing these ingredients beforehand will help to have them handy to assist in their preparation efficiently.
- 4
Heat a kadhai or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the ghee to the pan.
- 5
Once the ghee melts and it's fragrant, add grated coconut to it, saut it carefully not letting it burn, and cook till it's starting to give a nutty aroma and light golden.
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Now pour in the milk or condensed milk into it and mix well. Let the mixture simmer stirring it from time to time till it becomes thick.
- 7
Add sugar or jaggery, stirring it well into the coconut mixture so that it dissolves well. Now put in cardamom powder and saffron to give flavour and colour to the halwa as it leaves the sides of the pan.
- 8
Mix well and cook till the texture of the coconut becomes shiny and soft. Once the coconut reaches the perfect consistency, take it off the stove.
- 9
Pour the halwa into a serving dish. Level out the surface of the halwa with a spatula. Garnish with abundant shavings of almonds, cashews, and pistachios pressing them lightly into the halwa.
- 10
This halwa can be had warm as a treat, or refrigerated for a few hours to chill if you like your dessert chilled. Coconut halwa is excellent to have, not only on special occasions but also as a luxury on their own over meals. Store leftovers airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Heat and serve if needed. This easy yet flavourful coconut halwa is sure to please everyone with its aromatic richness, creamy texture, and authenticity.