Moong Dal Halwa
Moong Dal Halwa or if I translate correctly may be called as Yellow Lentil Fudge is a Protein rich high calorie dessert; but when consumed in moderation will be a perfect dessert in a cold weather. I call this a Winter Delicacy.
The best is you can store it in refrigerator for many weeks and it stays good or freeze it almost for an year the taste and as per the latest articles i read even nutrients remain intact.
I made this at home during Lohri and Sankranti festivals this year and definitely want to repeat every year. It was so good and satisfying.
The below recipe can server up to 6
Ingredients
1/2 Cup Moong Dal (Split Yellow Lentils)
1/2 Cup Ghee (or unsalted clarified butter)
2/3 Cup Sugar
2 Cups Water
1/2 tsp Cardamom Powder
3-4 Saffron Strings (Optional)
Sliced Roasted Almonds, Cashew (For garnish)
You must have noticed one thing, I am not using any milk or cream or khoya the reason being I want to store it. You can replace half a quantity of water with Milk and later add some cream but if you ask me no need, taste without milk or cream is equally good or even better.
Directions
1. Soak Lentils in a water for approx 4 to 6 hrs. By soaking it will get soft and fluffy; almost double in size.
After 6 hrs of soaking - Fluffy Lentils
2. Grind the soaked lentils to a coarse paste. Not to add water or max up to 1-2 tbsp while grinding keep in mind it should be coarse grainy like texture not loose, smooth or liquidy.
3. Now in a heavy bottom pan, warm ghee or butter and add the grinded lentils.
Grind lentils when mixed with ghee
4. Mix it on medium flame for 5 mins.
5. Change the heat to low and keep mixing it by pressing it so that lentils are getting cooked also.
6. In parallel boil two cups of water, add sugar, saffron string and cardamon powder.
7. The whole process of cooking lentils will take around 25-30 mins and results into a pleasant aroma and a perfect arm exercise :)
This is the color after 25 mins
8. Finally add water little by little in to the cooked lentils and make sure keep mixing to avoid any lumps.
After adding water little by little
9. Cover the lentils for approx 5-6 mins but keep checking and mixing every 2 mins.
10. You will notice it started to release the oil from the sides. It means its ready.
Oil is getting separated
11. In a serving bowl, garnish with roasted nuts or store it in a air tight container in a refrigerator.
It is a must to try, a bit of an effort, but believe me, its worth it.