SWEET RECIPE

Ash gourd halwa, also known as Petha halwa, is a delicious and healthy dessert made from ash gourd. This dessert is popular in Indian cuisine and is often served during festivals and special occasions. Ash gourd is rich in water content and low in calories, making it a great ingredient for a healthy and nutritious dessert. Here is a recipe for making ash gourd halwa at home:

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups grated ash gourd

2. 1 cup sugar

3. 1 cup milk

4. 2 tbsp ghee

5. 1/4 tsp cardamom powder

6. A pinch of saffron

7. 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Wash the ash gourd and peel the skin. Cut it into small pieces and grate them using a grater. Squeeze the grated ash gourd to remove excess water.

2. Heat a pan and add 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add the grated ash gourd and saute for a few minutes until the moisture evaporates.

3. Add the milk and stir well. Cook on medium heat until the ash gourd becomes soft and the milk is completely absorbed. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

4. Add the sugar and mix well. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved and the halwa thickens.

5. Add the cardamom powder and saffron. Mix well and cook for another 5-10 minutes.

6. Add the remaining tablespoon of ghee and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the halwa starts to leave the sides of the pan.

7. Turn off the heat and let the halwa cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped nuts (optional).

8. Serve the ash gourd halwa warm or cold.

Note: You can adjust the amount of sugar and ghee based on your preference.

Ash gourd halwa is a healthy and delicious dessert that is easy to make at home. This dessert has a natural sweetness from the ash gourd and can be made without any artificial sweeteners. The recipe can also be modified to suit dietary preferences, such as using a sugar substitute instead of sugar or reducing the amount of ghee.

Ash gourd halwa is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great dessert option for people who are health conscious and want to indulge in a sweet treat without feeling guilty. Ash gourd is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great ingredient to incorporate into your diet.

The process of making ash gourd halwa is simple and straightforward. The key is to cook the ash gourd and milk mixture on low heat until the liquid is completely absorbed. This will help to create a thick and sticky texture that is characteristic of halwa. Adding sugar and ghee helps to give the halwa a rich and creamy taste. Cardamom powder and saffron strands add a fragrant and aromatic flavor to the dish.

Ash gourd halwa can be served warm or cold and is perfect for any occasion. It can be served as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee. It can also be packed and taken as a snack for work or school. The roasted nuts add a crunchy texture to the halwa and make it even more delicious.

In conclusion, ash gourd halwa is a healthy and tasty dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its natural sweetness and rich flavor, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste and benefits of this unique dessert.