Badam Halwa Recipe/ Almond halwa recipe:Badam halwa/Almond halwa
Badam Halwa: A Rich and Decadent Indian Dessert
Badam Halwa is a popular Indian dessert that is made with ground almonds, milk, sugar, and spices. It is a rich and creamy confection that is often served during special occasions and festivals.
Starting the New Year on a sweet note is a tradition followed by many. And what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and nutritious dessert like Badam Halwa or Almond Powder Halwa?
Origin:
Badam Halwa or Almond Powder Halwa has its roots in the Mughal era. It is believed that this dessert was first prepared by the royal chefs for the Mughal emperors. The use of almonds in this dessert was not only for its rich flavor but also for its medicinal properties. Almonds were known to be a source of strength and energy, making them a popular ingredient in traditional Indian medicine.
This dessert is not only delicious but also has several health benefits due to the high content of almonds. In this article, we will discuss the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and nutritional benefits of Badam Halwa.
Ingredients:
1. Almonds (Badam) - 1 cup
2. Whole Milk - 4 cups
3. Heavy Cream - 2 cups
4. Sugar - 1 cup
5. Cardamom Powder - 1/2 tsp (optional)
6. Saffron Strands - 1/4 tsp (optional)
7. Ghee - 2 tbsp
8. Pistachios and Almonds for garnishing
Instructions:
Step 1: Blanching and Grinding Almonds
The first step in making Badam Halwa is to blanch the almonds in hot water for 5 minutes. This helps to remove the skin from the almonds easily. After blanching, drain the water and pat dry the almonds using a clean towel. Grind the almonds into a fine paste using a little bit of milk. Keep aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Halwa
In a heavy bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium flame. Add the ground almond paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns light brown in color. This process helps to enhance the flavor and aroma of the almond paste. Add the whole milk and heavy cream to the pan. Stir well to combine. Cook over medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reduces to half its original volume. This will take around 45-60 minutes. During this process, make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent burning of the milk mixture.
Step 3: Adding Sugar and Spices
Add sugar and cardamom powder to the pan. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. Cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the halwa thickens further and leaves the sides of the pan. Add saffron strands and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the halwa reaches your desired consistency. Switch off the flame. Pour the halwa into a serving plate and cut them in desired shape. Garnish with pistachios and almonds. Serve hot or warm. Enjoy your delicious Badam Halwa!
Nutritional Benefits:
Badam Halwa is not only delicious but also has several health benefits due to the high content of almonds. Almonds are rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. They are also known to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy bones due to their high calcium content. The use of whole milk in this recipe provides essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein that are essential for bone health and muscle growth. The use of sugar in moderation is also beneficial as it provides quick energy during workouts or long runs due to its high carbohydrate content. However, it is recommended to consume this dessert in moderation as it is high in calories due to the use of heavy cream and sugar in large quantities.
Enjoy making Badam Halwa at home!
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