Recipe Blog: How to Make Suji Halwa A Classic Indian Dessert
Suji Halwa, also known as Rava Sheera or Semolina Pudding, is a traditional Indian dessert made with roasted semolina (suji), ghee, sugar, and water. It's quick to prepare, aromatic, and often served during festivals, religious ceremonies, or as a comfort dessert at home. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is a must-have in your dessert collection.
Ingredients:
● Suji (semolina) – 1 cup
● Ghee – ½ cup
● Sugar – ¾ to 1 cup (adjust according to taste)
● Water – 2½ cups
● Cardamom powder – ½ teaspoon
● Cashew nuts – 10 to 12
● Raisins – 10 to 15
● A few saffron strands (optional)
● Chopped almonds or pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat Ghee and Roast Nuts
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee on medium flame. Add cashew nuts and roast until they turn golden brown. Then add raisins and let them puff up. Remove them from the ghee and set aside for later garnish.
Step 2: Roast the Suji
In the same pan with remaining ghee, add suji. Roast it on low to medium heat, stirring continuously to avoid burning. Keep roasting until the suji turns golden and releases a nutty aroma. This usually takes 6–8 minutes. Patience is key here to ensure the halwa doesn’t turn lumpy.
Step 3: Boil Water and Add Sugar
Meanwhile, in another pot, bring water to a boil. Add sugar to the water and stir until it dissolves completely. You can also add saffron strands at this stage for extra fragrance and color.
Step 4: Combine Water with Roasted Suji
Carefully pour the hot sugar water into the roasted suji. Be cautious as the mixture may splutter. Stir quickly and continuously to avoid lumps. The suji will absorb the liquid and start thickening.
Step 5: Add Cardamom and Nuts
Once the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan, add cardamom powder, roasted cashews, and raisins. Mix everything well. You can also add some chopped almonds or pistachios for a richer taste.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve the suji halwa hot as is or with puris for a traditional North Indian meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a quick and satisfying dessert.
Tips for Perfect Suji Halwa:
● Always roast the suji thoroughly for a non-sticky texture.
● You can replace water with milk or use half-and-half for a creamier version.
● For added flavor, add a few drops of rose water or a pinch of nutmeg.
Suji halwa is not just a sweet dish—it’s a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of festivals, childhood, and home-cooked meals. Simple to make and delightful to eat, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress.
