Ingredients:
- Urad dal (whole black gram) – 1 cup
- Ghee (clarified butter) – 4 tbsp
- Jaggery (or sugar) – ½ cup (adjust to taste)
- Water – 2 cups
- Milk – 1 cup (you can also use coconut milk for variation)
- Cardamom powder – ½ tsp
- Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios) – 2 tbsp (for garnish)
- Raisins – 1 tbsp (optional)
- Saffron strands – a few (optional)
- Pinch of salt – to balance sweetness
Method:
1. Soak the Urad Dal:
o Begin by washing the urad dal thoroughly.
o Soak the dal in water for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for better texture.
2. Cook the Urad Dal:
o After soaking, drain the water and transfer the dal to a pressure cooker.
o Add 2 cups of water and cook the dal for about 2-3 whistles (or until soft and tender).
o Alternatively, you can cook the dal in a regular pot until it softens, but a pressure cooker speeds up the process.
3. Prepare the Halwa Base:
o Heat ghee in a pan on medium heat.
o Once the ghee is hot, add the cooked urad dal to the pan and sauté it for about 5-7 minutes. This helps to enhance the flavor and texture of the dal.
4. Add Milk and Sweeteners:
o Pour in the milk and stir continuously to avoid any lumps.
o Add jaggery (or sugar) and mix well. If using jaggery, allow it to melt completely.
o Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Flavoring:
o Add cardamom powder for a fragrant touch. Stir well.
o If you like, you can also add saffron strands soaked in a tablespoon of milk for a rich color and flavor.
6. Simmer the Halwa:
o Let the mixture simmer on low flame, stirring occasionally, until the halwa thickens and becomes creamy (about 10-15 minutes). Keep adjusting the consistency by adding a little more milk if needed.
7. Garnish:
o Once the halwa reaches a pudding-like consistency, garnish with chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios) and raisins.
o Drizzle a little more ghee on top for extra richness and flavor.
8. Serve:
o Serve the Urad Dal Halwa warm, and enjoy this nutritious delight that is especially great for post-delivery recovery.
Why is urad dal Halwa Beneficial for New Mothers?
- High in Iron: urad dal is an excellent source of iron, which helps in replenishing blood lost during delivery and combats anemia.
- Boosts Energy: The combination of ghee and urad dal provides long-lasting energy, crucial during the postpartum phase.
- Promotes Lactation: The rich protein content in urad dal supports milk production and helps in maintaining the strength of new mothers.
- Helps in Postpartum Recovery: The ghee in the halwa aids in digestive health, joint lubrication, and overall body strengthening.
- Nourishing for Bone Health: The presence of calcium in the dal helps strengthen bones, which is important for the mother, especially after childbirth.
Additional Tips:
- Jaggery is preferred over refined sugar as it is more nutritious, providing a natural source of energy and rich in minerals like iron.
- You can adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference.
- If you prefer a more creamy texture, increase the amount of milk or add a bit of cream while preparing the halwa.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and comfort, especially during the colder months.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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