Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, cashews)
- 1/4 cup raisins
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch cake pan with oil or butter.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cardamom.
4. In another mixing bowl, beat the sugar and oil together until creamy.
5. Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the chopped nuts and raisins.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
11. Remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.
- Instead of vegetable oil, you can use melted butter or coconut oil.
- Instead of milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk.
- Instead of nuts and raisins, you can use dried fruits like apricots or cranberries.
Variations:
- You can add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- You can add a tablespoon of rosewater for a floral aroma.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to grate the carrots finely for a smooth texture.
- Do not overmix the batter, as it can make the cake tough.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the cake, place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.
- Top the cake with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a decadent dessert.
Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
Pairings:
- Masala chai
- Coffee
- Milk
Suggested side dishes:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the cake is too moist, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the cake.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Gajar ka halwa is a popular Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee.
- It is traditionally served during festivals and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet
- Nutty
- Spiced
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature.
- Top with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert.
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Region: Indian