Moong Dal Halwa is a classic Indian dessert made from yellow moong dal (split yellow gram), ghee, sugar, and flavored with cardamom and nuts. This rich, creamy, and aromatic sweet dish is especially popular during festivals and special occasions in North India. Though it requires some patience, the result is absolutely worth the effort — a melt-in-the-mouth halwa that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow gram)
- 3/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 cup sugar (adjust as per taste)
- 3 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 10-12 cashew nuts, chopped
- 10-12 almonds, sliced
- 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
Moong Dal Halwa Recipe Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Soak and grind moong dal
Rinse the moong dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 1-2 hours. Drain the water and grind the dal coarsely (not a fine paste), using very little water.
Step 2: Roast the dal in ghee
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the ground moong dal and roast it, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Roast until the dal turns golden brown and aromatic. This process may take about 20-25 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare sugar syrup
Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, boil water and dissolve the sugar in it to make a sugar syrup. Keep it warm.
Step 4: Add sugar syrup to roasted dal
Slowly add the warm sugar syrup to the roasted moong dal mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 5: Cook the halwa
Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously until the halwa thickens and the ghee starts to separate from the sides. This step ensures the perfect consistency and rich flavor.
Step 6: Add cardamom and nuts
Add cardamom powder, chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve warm
Moong Dal Halwa tastes best when served warm. Garnish with extra nuts if desired.\
Read:-How to cook thalipeeth Recipe
Tips for Perfect Moong Dal Halwa
- Use fresh and good quality moong dal for best results.
- Continuous stirring while roasting dal is crucial to avoid burning.
- Adjust sugar according to your sweetness preference.
- Ghee is essential for the rich flavor; don’t reduce its quantity too much.
Why Moong Dal Halwa is Special
Moong Dal Halwa is not only a delicious dessert but also a source of protein and energy. It is often prepared during festivals like Diwali, weddings, and celebrations. Its rich texture and sweet aroma make it a festive favorite loved by all ages.
Conclusion
Moong Dal Halwa is a traditional and indulgent Indian dessert that you must try making at home. With patience and the right technique, you can create this golden, luscious treat that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Enjoy it warm with family and friends for a memorable festive experience!
