Lauki Halwa is a popular Indian sweet made by simmering grated bottle gourd in milk, sugar, and cardamom. This creamy dessert is rich in flavour and perfect for festivals or family gatherings. Garnished with crunchy nuts, it carries both a homely warmth and a festive charm that everyone will love.
Peel the bottle gourd and grate it finely. Ensure that you remove the soft core with seeds. Once grated, squeeze out extra water using your hands. This step is crucial, as it prevents the halwa from becoming too runny during cooking.
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Step 2: Boil the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan, pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle boil. Keep stirring occasionally so that the milk doesn’t stick to the bottom or form a layer on top. Allow it to simmer and reduce slightly.
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Step 3: Cook the Lauki
Add the grated lauki to the boiling milk. Stir well and let it cook on medium heat. Keep stirring every few minutes so the mixture doesn’t stick. The lauki will soften, and the milk will slowly absorb its flavour while thickening.
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Step 4: Add Sweetness
Once the lauki is well-cooked and most of the milk has reduced, add sugar. Stir continuously as the sugar melts. The mixture will loosen up a little but will thicken again as it cooks. Keep scraping the sides of the pan and mixing in the solids for a creamy texture.
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Step 5: Finish With Flavour
Add green cardamom powder and mix it evenly through the halwa. The cardamom will release a sweet aroma, balancing the richness of milk and sugar. Switch off the heat once the halwa thickens to your liking.
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Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the halwa to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins. You can serve it hot for a comforting taste or chilled for a refreshing festive dessert.