Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe (Carrot Halwa) – Easy Microwave Method

Microwave Gajar ka Halwa served in a decorative Indian bowl.

Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe (Carrot Halwa) – Easy Microwave Method

Gajar Ka Halwa, also known as Carrot Halwa, is the quintessential Indian dessert that brings nostalgia and celebration to every bite. Made with grated carrots, milk, ghee, sugar, khoya (mawa), and a generous sprinkle of nuts, this indulgent sweet treat is a festival favorite in Indian homes, especially during Diwali, Holi, and winter celebrations.

Course Dessert

Cuisine Indian, Pakistani

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings people

Calories 401.67kcal

Author Priya Lakshminarayan

Equipment

Ingredients

5 cups grated carrots
5 tablespoon ghee
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
1 cup milk
¾ cup sugar
6 oz khoya crumbled or grated
2 tablespoon mixed chopped nuts
½ teaspoon saffron optional

Instructions

Grate the khoya and keep it ready.
Peel and grate the carrots.
Transfer the grated carrots to a microwave safe bowl.
Add ghee, milk and ground cardamom. Mix. Microwave on HIGH for 15 minutes. Keep stirring every 5 minutes using a silicone spatula. Be careful when dealing with hot bowl. Use pot holders or a towel when taking the hot bowl out of the microwave.
The carrots will soften after 15 minutes and there will be no liquid left. If not, keep it for 5 more minutes or as needed.
Then add sugar and microwave on HIGH for another 3 minutes. Again, keep stirring at regular intervals.
After 3 minutes, the consistency of the halwa will appear liquid. That's fine.
Add the crumbled khoya to the bowl. Mix well and continue to microwave on HIGH for another 10 minutes. Mix it again halfway. Khoya will help thicken the halwa and give it the right creamy and rich consistency.
The carrots should have softened by now and come together like a pudding. If not microwave it again for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish with chopped nuts. Mix and serve.

Notes

In US, you can check stores like Sprouts, Whole foods, Fresh Market for organic red carrots. You may find them in the farmer's market. If you can't find red carrots, use orange carrots and adjust the sweetness accordingly. Instead of milk, you can also use evaporated milk, heavy cream, creamer or half and half. Just remember, microwave cooking times can vary, so keep an eye on your halwa and stir regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. For Instant pot, dairy-free, and sugar-free carrot halwa recipe, refer to my Vegan Carrot Halwa recipe. Skip adding nuts if you are allergic.

Nutrition