Navratri 2023: It’s that time of year when we have to modify our dietary habits in accordance with the requirements of following vrat, and Navratri is just around the corner (fasting). This does not imply that vrat food cannot be satisfying to the palate and delicious. A superb pudding-like dessert option that is gluten-free, delicious, and nutrient-rich that fits the bill for Navratri meals is amaranth or rajgira halwa.
Nutrient-rich flour:
According to research published by the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, amaranth or rajgira is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and Vitamin C. This flour also boasts antioxidant properties that help lower oxidative stress and prevent free radical damage.
Health benefits:
Amaranth halwa is not only delicious but also provides numerous health benefits. Its rich nutrient profile makes it a good choice for those observing vrat during Navratri. Calcium in the flour helps build strong bones, while iron aids in the formation of red blood cells. Magnesium is essential for proper muscle and nerve function, while potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Vitamin C boosts immunity and prevents oxidative stress.
Easy-to-make recipe:
This halwa recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require much time or effort. Simply heat ghee in a pan, add amaranth flour, and roast until fragrant. Then add water and cook until the mixture thickens. Add jaggery or sugar, cardamom powder, and nuts, and cook until the halwa reaches the desired consistency. Serve hot and enjoy a delicious and nutritious dessert.
Are you prepared to create rajgira halwa now?
This is what you will need
1 cup amaranth/rajgira flour
2 ½ cup milk
6-8 tbsp ghee
½ cup sugar
½ tsp cardamom powder
1 tbsp chopped cashew nuts
1 tbsp chopped almonds
Here is a recipe for rajgira/amaranth halwa.
Heating the Milk and Adding Sugar: To start, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to boil. Once boiling, add sugar to the milk and lower the flame of the pot to maintain a steady simmer.
Sauteing the Flour in Ghee: Next, heat a pan and add ghee to it. Once the ghee has melted and is heated, add the amaranth/rajgira flour to the pan. Sauté the flour for 4 to 5 minutes, keeping an eye out for a nutty aroma and brown coloration of the ingredients.
Adding the Milk to the Flour: When the flour is browned, gently pour the milk into the pan. Stir the ingredients on medium heat to ensure that the flour and milk are well-combined.
Incorporating Additional Ingredients: Once the milk has been absorbed and the sheera/treacle has receded to the sides of the pan, add cardamom powder, cashews, and almonds to the mixture. Mix the ingredients well for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Finishing the Dish: Finally, switch off the heat and let the rajgira sheera/treacle cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious dessert warm or at room temperature.
