Halwa is a classic Indian dessert known for its soft, pudding-like consistency and its rich flavor. While many are familiar with the popular versions like carrot (gajar) halwa or semolina (sooji) halwa, fruit-based halwas like papaya halwa offer a unique and refreshing twist.
Papaya, with its natural sweetness and juicy texture, lends itself beautifully to the halwa-making process. In addition, papaya is known for its numerous health benefits. It’s a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, folate, and other essential nutrients. It also contains an enzyme called papain, which aids digestion.
Here’s a delightful recipe for Papaya Halwa:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serves: 3-4
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized semi-ripe papaya (Approximately 4.5 cups when chopped)
- 2-3 tbsp sunflower oil or ghee (clarified butter)
- 4-5 tbsp sugar (Adjust based on the sweetness of the papaya)
- ½ tsp green cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp almond powder (Alternatively, you can use milk powder, coconut powder, or khoya)
- 12-15 halved cashews
Instructions:
- Prepare the Papaya:
- Wash the papaya and cut it into slices.
- Remove the seeds and the inner pith.
- Peel and finely chop or grate the slices.
2. Making the Halwa:
- Heat the oil or ghee in a kadai or pan.
- Add the papaya and sauté on low heat for 14-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the papaya becomes soft and translucent, add sugar and mix well. Continue to cook for another 18-20 minutes. The mixture will thicken, and the oil will start to separate.
- Add the almond powder and mix well. Cook for another 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the cashews and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Serving:
- Serve the papaya halwa hot or warm as a delightful dessert.
- For a refreshing twist, you can refrigerate it and enjoy it cold.
This halwa is not only a treat to the taste buds but also adds a dose of health benefits to your dessert plate. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply want a unique treat for the family, papaya halwa is sure to delight. Enjoy!
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