Authentic Carrot Halwa (Gajar Ka Halwa)

Ingredients

• Carrots (4 cups, peeled and grated)
• Milk (2 cups)
• Sugar (1 cup)
• Ghee (clarified butter) (4 tablespoons)
• Cardamom powder (1 teaspoon)
• Cashews (1/4 cup)
• Almonds (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Raisins (1/4 cup)

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Add the grated carrots and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until the carrots are well-cooked and slightly reduced in volume.
3. Pour in the milk, stirring well to combine with the carrots. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer until the milk is completely absorbed, about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from burning.
4. Add the sugar and cardamom powder to the pan, stirring continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the halwa starts to leave the sides of the pan.
5. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee. Add the cashews, raisins, and chopped almonds, frying until they turn a golden brown color.
6. Remove the pan from heat and add the fried nuts to the halwa, stirring well to incorporate.
7. Serve your Carrot Halwa hot, garnished with a few extra roasted nuts. Alternatively, you can also chill it in the refrigerator for a cool, refreshing dessert.