With the arrival of winter, the season invites us to embrace cosy moments & relish the warmth of delectable treats. Amidst the array of winter desserts, one timeless delight stands out – halwa. However, envision enhancing not only the flavour but also the nutritional value of this cherished dessert by incorporating a generous handful of dry fruits. This uncomplicated twist not only introduces a delightful crunch to your halwa but also imbues it with a plethora of health benefits. Marisha Baurai, Food Innovation Technologist, Farmley guides you through the process of elevating your winter indulgence into a healthier culinary experience.
THE MAGIC OF DRY FRUITS IN HALWA
Dry fruits are these amazing little gems that pack a punch of health benefits. From proteins & vitamins to fibres & essential minerals, they’ve got it all. When you sprinkle them into your halwa, they do more than just add a nice crunch. They elevate the nutritional profile of your dessert, making each bite not just delicious but also incredibly beneficial for your health. It’s like having your cake (or halwa, in this case) & eating it too!
DELIGHTFUL HALWA VARIETIES
- Gajar Ka Halwa: Ah, the quintessential winter favourite! Now, imagine its carroty, creamy goodness intertwined with the richness of almonds & cashews. These nuts don’t just contribute to the texture; they make your halwa a source of healthy fats & proteins. It’s a classic dessert with a nutritious twist.
- Badam Ka Halwa: This halwa is a celebration of almonds, but why not go all out & add a variety of nuts? Think pistachios, walnuts, or even some exotic dried fruits like apricots. This addition not only brings a burst of flavours but also adds a hefty dose of vitamins & antioxidants. Each spoonful becomes a healthful indulgence.
- Suji Halwa: Simple yet sublime, this semolina-based delight is a staple in many households. Now, give it a nutritious makeover with a generous sprinkle of mixed dry fruits. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also packs in essential nutrients.
- Besan Halwa: Made with gram flour, this halwa is already a good source of protein. But let’s amp it up with some dry fruits. Almonds, cashews, even some raisins – they add not just flavour & texture but also a host of health benefits. It’s a perfect treat for those days when you crave something sweet but healthy.
- Walnut Halwa: Walnuts are a boon for brain health, & incorporating them into your halwa is a smart move. Add a mix of other nuts & maybe some dried berries for that extra punch of Omega-3 & antioxidants.
- Black Halwa: Then, there’s Black Halwa, a unique & exotic treat from the heart of Kerala. Traditionally made with rice flour & jaggery, it’s already quite a delight. But why not enrich it with some dry fruits? Cashews, almonds, maybe a sprinkle of pistachios – they add not just to the taste but also to the health quotient, making this halwa a fibre-rich & energy-boosting delicacy.
Adding dry fruits to your halwa isn’t just for the taste. They can help improve your heart health, boost your immunity (which we all need during the winter), & even help in weight management. Plus, they’re great for your skin & hair.
So, prepare your halwa as you usually would, & when it’s almost done, stir in a generous amount of chopped dry fruits. You could also roast the nuts lightly before adding them to the halwa to bring out their flavours. And there you have it – your regular halwa, but with a delightful & healthy twist.
