Shakarkandi ka Halwa

Shakarkandi ka Halwa, also known as Sweet Potato Halwa, is a popular Indian dessert made from sweet potatoes, sugar, ghee, and flavored with cardamom and nuts. Here’s a detailed recipe to make Shakarkandi ka Halwa:

Ingredients:

• 500 grams sweet potatoes (shakarkandi)
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
• 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for soaking saffron)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

1. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and grate them using a grater or finely chop them into small pieces.

2. Soak Saffron (if using):

1. If using saffron, soak the saffron strands in warm milk for about 10-15 minutes. This helps release the flavor and color of saffron.

3. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:

1. Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai over medium heat.
2. Add the grated or chopped sweet potatoes to the pan.
3. Stir and cook the sweet potatoes in ghee until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This may take about 10-15 minutes.

4. Add Sugar and Flavorings:

1. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, add sugar to the pan.
2. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely and combines with the sweet potatoes.
3. Add cardamom powder and mix well to incorporate the flavor.

5. Add Nuts and Saffron:

1. If using saffron, add the soaked saffron along with the milk to the pan.
2. Stir well to distribute the saffron evenly.
3. Add chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) and raisins to the pan.
4. Mix everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the halwa reaches a desired consistency.

6. Serve:

1. Once the halwa is cooked and reaches a thick consistency, turn off the heat.
2. Transfer the Shakarkandi ka Halwa to a serving dish.
3. Garnish with additional chopped nuts and saffron strands if desired.
4. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Indian dessert with your loved ones!

Shakarkandi ka Halwa can be served on its own as a dessert or paired with poori or chapati for a delightful treat.