India > Desserts > Halwa

Kismis Halwa Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup raisins (kismis)
- 1/2 cup ghee
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)

Special equipment needed:
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Soak the raisins in water for 30 minutes, then drain and grind them in a food processor until they form a paste.
2. Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
3. Add the raisin paste and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a deep brown color.
4. In a separate pan, combine the sugar and water and heat until the sugar dissolves.
5. Add the sugar syrup to the raisin mixture and stir well.
6. Add the cardamom powder and chopped nuts and mix well.
7. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to come away from the sides of the pan.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Transfer the halwa to a greased dish and let it set for at least an hour.
10. Cut into squares or diamonds and serve.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 pieces

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 10mg
Sugar: 20g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nuts you like, or omit them altogether.
- You can use jaggery instead of sugar for a more traditional flavor.

Variations:
- You can add saffron or rose water for a different flavor.
- You can add grated coconut for texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when cooking the raisin paste, as it takes time to thicken and darken.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
- Grease the dish well to prevent sticking.

Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Reheating instructions:
Microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a pan over low heat.

Presentation ideas:
Serve on a platter with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cardamom powder.

Garnishes:
Chopped nuts, cardamom powder, saffron strands.

Pairings:
Tea, coffee, or milk.

Suggested side dishes:
None needed.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thick, add a little more water.
- If the mixture is too thin, cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean utensils and cookware.

Food history:
Kismis Halwa is a traditional Indian sweet made with raisins and ghee.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, nutty, and aromatic.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Indian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Rich, Aromatic