Kaddu Ka Halwa (Pumpkin Halwa)

 Ingredients:

• 1 kg pumpkin (kaddu), grated
• ½ liter milk
• ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 3 tbsp desi ghee
• ½ cup khoya (optional, for richness)
• ½ tsp cardamom powder
• ¼ cup mixed dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios, chopped)

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Instructions:

1️⃣ Cook the Pumpkin

• In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, add the grated pumpkin and milk.
• Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the milk evaporates and the pumpkin softens completely.

2️⃣ Add Ghee & Cook Further

• Once the milk is absorbed, add desi ghee and sauté the mixture on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the halwa starts releasing ghee and turns glossy.

3️⃣ Sweeten & Flavor

• Add sugar and mix well. Cook until the sugar dissolves and the halwa thickens.
• Stir in cardamom powder for aroma.

4️⃣ Final Touch

• Turn off the stove and mix in crumbled khoya for extra richness.
• Garnish with chopped dry fruits.

Tips & Variations:

✅ Khoya Substitute: If you don’t have khoya, use condensed milk or increase the amount of milk.
✅ Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk for extra richness.
✅ Crunchy Twist: Roast dry fruits in ghee before adding for a nuttier taste.

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for Kaddu Ka Halwa (per serving, assuming 6 servings).

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Protein: ~6g
• Fat: ~10g
• Sugar: ~30g
• Fiber: ~2g

Macronutrient Breakdown:

• Pumpkin (Kaddu): Low in calories, high in fiber, vitamins A & C.
• Milk & Khoya: Provide protein and calcium.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness but increases the calorie count.
• Desi Ghee: Provides healthy fats, making the halwa rich and aromatic.
• Dry Fruits: Boosts protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients.