Summer calls for mango dessert recipes, and mango halwa is one such recipe you must try. It is a glossy dessert, almost like a fruit jelly, exhibiting the sweetness and fragrance of ripe mangoes. There’s also the tempting aroma cardamom and ghee, both used in the halwa recipe. Unlike the more popular gajar ka halwa or badam halwa, which are soft and spoonable, mango halwa is firm. Its squares that can be lifted, sliced, and eaten with your fingers, much like the iconic Bombay Karachi halwa.
The cooking method is quite straightforward: cornflour is dissolved in water, which acts as the setting agent, giving the halwa its distinctive bouncy, gelatinous texture as it cooks. Ghee is added in stages throughout the cooking process, transforming the mixture from a thick, opaque paste into a glossy, slightly translucent halwa that pulls cleanly away from the sides of the pan. All you need to do is constantly keep stirring over low heat to cook the halwa.
This mango halwa recipe is perfect for Tamil New Year, Vishu, Eid, Diwali, or any festive occasion that requires a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. It requires no baking, no special equipment, and can be made ahead – the set halwa keeps well in the fridge for three to five days. Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer treat, or at room temperature for a richer, more traditional flavour.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
½ cupCornstarch (cornflour) For the cornstarch slurry
½ cupWater
1½ cupsMango puree or pulp (fresh or tinned) For the halwa
Generously grease a flat pan or tray with ghee, coating the base and sides well. Set aside. Take a separate small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the water until completely smooth and lump-free. Set the slurry aside.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Cook the Mango Pulp
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a heavy-bottomed kadai over medium heat. Add the mango pulp and cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes. The pulp will deepen slightly in colour and begin to thicken as the raw taste cooks off.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Add the Cornstarch Slurry and Sugar
Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir to re-combine, then pour it into the pan with the mango pulp. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add the sugar and keep stirring over medium-low heat. The mixture will begin to thicken noticeably.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Add Ghee in Stages and Cook to Halwa Consistency
Once the mixture is visibly thick, begin adding the remaining ghee one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition. The halwa will turn glossy and translucent. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture pulls away cleanly from the sides and base of the pan. Add the ground cardamom and the mixed nuts and mix.
Description - Step 5
Step 5: Set and Slice
Pour the halwa mixture into the greased setting pan immediately. Smooth the surface and tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles. Allow to cool completely at room temperature for a couple of hours until firm. Once fully set, invert onto a clean chopping board, peel off any lining, and cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator.
Step 1
Step 1: Prepare the Setting Pan and Slurry
5 Minutes
Step 2
Step 2: Cook the Mango Pulp
5 Minutes
Step 3
Step 3: Add the Cornstarch Slurry and Sugar
10 Minutes
Step 4
Step 4: Add Ghee in Stages and Cook to Halwa Consistency
Cardamom, lime, saffron, chilli powder, ginger, vanilla and mint complement mango’s sweetness and add a depth of flavour to mango dessert recipes.
Yes, in moderation, as mango provides fibre, potassium, and antioxidants that support heart health, but excess intake may raise sugar levels.
Avoid combining mango with heavy dairy or overeating after meals; traditionally, fish and bitter foods are also discouraged in some diets.
The Alphonso mango is widely considered the tastiest due to its unmatchable sweetness, smooth texture, and aroma, though varieties like Kesar mango and Dasheri mango are also popular.