Suji Halwa
Sweet semolina pudding with ghee, sugar, and cardamom — festive breakfast.
For 2 servings
4 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat a small amount of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan
- b.Add the cashews and almonds to the pan
- c.Roast for 2 minutes until golden brown
- d.Remove the nuts and set them aside for later
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add the semolina to the remaining ghee in the pan
- b.Stir continuously over medium-low heat
- c.Roast for 4 minutes until the rava turns golden and aromatic
TIPStir constantly to ensure the semolina browns evenly without burning. - 3
Step 3
- 4
Step 4
- a.Fold in the ground cardamom and the roasted nuts
- b.Mix well to distribute the flavors
- c.Turn off the heat and let the halwa rest for 2 minutes before serving
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Roasting the suji on low heat until aromatic is the most critical step for a flavorful and non-sticky halwa.
- 2Always use fine suji (semolina) for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Coarse suji will result in a grainier halwa.
- 3Adding hot liquid to the hot roasted suji is key to preventing lumps and ensuring the suji cooks evenly.
- 4Be extremely careful when adding the liquid to the suji as it will splutter. Pour slowly and from a safe distance.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can replace the entire quantity of water with milk.
- 6Suji halwa thickens as it cools. To serve later, reheat it in a pan with a splash of warm milk or water to loosen it up.
- 7The amount of ghee might seem like a lot, but it is essential for the authentic taste, texture, and to prevent the halwa from becoming sticky.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1/2 teaspoon of rose water or a few drops of kewra essence along with the cardamom powder for a different floral aroma.
IngredientIngredient
Replace white sugar with an equal amount of powdered jaggery for a more earthy, traditional flavor. Add the jaggery to the water-milk mixture and dissolve it completely.
DietaryDietary
For a vegan version, replace ghee with a neutral vegetable oil or coconut oil, and use only water or a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
TextureTexture
Add 2 tablespoons of desiccated coconut along with the suji while roasting to add a different texture and nutty flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Instant Energy Boost
Semolina (suji) is a rich source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary fuel. This makes Suji Halwa an excellent source of quick energy.
Source of Healthy Fats
Ghee is a source of healthy saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and D. It contains butyric acid, which is beneficial for gut health.
Provides Important Minerals
Semolina is a good source of iron and magnesium. Iron is essential for preventing anemia and maintaining healthy blood, while magnesium supports muscle and nerve function.
Frequently asked questions
Lumps usually form for two reasons: either the suji was not roasted properly, or the liquid added was cold. Ensure you roast the suji well on low heat and always add the hot sugar syrup to the hot roasted suji while stirring continuously.