Halwa or Halva is one of the famous Indian sweet dishes which come in many varieties. It doesn’t have one place of origin. However, according to a few ‘food historians’ halwa is from middle-eastern, South Asian, and even central regions. In India, it’s mostly known as a soup-based sweet because of its texture and consistency. While a couple of recipes like ‘payasam’ or ‘kheer’ are thick liquid, the rest is semi-thick and even solid. Halwas are commonly prepared by using semolina or carrot. It’s time for some innovative recipes. Apple Halwa would probably remind you of apple pies, but if you carefully look at the method, it has an Indian touch and taste to it.
Health Benefits
One large apple contains a perfectly balanced combination of vitamins and minerals including potassium, and Vitamin K. Apples are a good source of fiber and Vitamin C. They also contain polyphenols which are essential for health. Apples can aid in weight loss, promote good heart health, provide good bacteria for the gut, and even fight certain diseases like asthma. Apple is best when eaten whole without seeds. However, apples are exposed to chemicals and wax coating. Hence, it is advisable to remove the skin before consuming.
Ingredients
apples, large : 2
tbsp – ghee / clarified butter: 1 ½
granulated sugar: ¼ cup + 2 tbsp
cinnamon powder: ½ tsp
cardamom powder: ¼ tsp
nutmeg powder: ⅛ tsp
sliced almonds, to garnish: ¼ cup
How To Make Apple Halwa
- Wash the apples and peel them.
- Cut into slices.
- Put them into a food processor till the apples are well ground. You can leave a few pieces.
- In a pan, heat ghee on medium heat.
- Once the ghee is heated, add the apples.
- Cook the apples until the water is evaporated. It will take between 7 and 8 minutes.
- Add sugar and mix.
- Add cinnamon powder, nutmeg, and cardamom powder.
- As the sugar melts, halwa will release sugar syrup.
- Cook for 5 minutes. Stir until water evaporates.
- Garnish with sliced almonds and serve hot.
Trivia
Sesame halva is popular in the Balkans, Poland, Middle East, and other areas surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.
Sunflower halva is popular in the countries of the former Soviet Union. It is made of roasted ground sunflower seeds instead of sesame. It may include other ingredients, such as nuts, cocoa powder, or vanilla.
The number five is a magical number for apples. The word "Apple' has five letters. Apple blossoms typically form in clusters of five, and apple blossoms have five petals.