Shakarkandi Halwa Recipe

Shakarkandi Halwa (Sweet Potato Halwa) is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional halwa, made from sweet potatoes. It’s packed with nutrients and has a naturally sweet flavor, making it a great option for those managing blood sugar levels in moderation.

Here’s a simple recipe to prepare:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (shakarkandi)
• 2-3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 3-4 tablespoons jaggery or sugar (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi)
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (optional, for a richer taste)
• Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) for garnish
• 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil or Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
   • Boil them in a pressure cooker or a pot until soft (around 2-3 whistles in a cooker or 20-25 minutes in a pot).
   • Alternatively, you can roast them in an oven until tender, which adds a rich, roasted flavor.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Once cooked, peel and mash the sweet potatoes using a fork or masher. Ensure there are no lumps.
3. Cook the Halwa:
   • Heat the ghee in a pan on medium heat.
   • Add the mashed sweet potatoes and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
   • Add the jaggery or sugar and mix well. The jaggery will melt and mix with the sweet potatoes, giving a smooth texture.
   • If you want a richer taste, add the milk at this point and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
4. Add Flavors:
   • Sprinkle in the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using).
   • Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the halwa thickens and ghee starts to separate.
5. Garnish:
   • Add chopped nuts and raisins, and mix well.
   • Cook for a minute or two before turning off the heat.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the halwa hot, garnished with additional nuts and saffron strands if desired.

Tips:

• Sweet potatoes have natural sweetness, so adjust the amount of sugar/jaggery based on your preference or dietary needs.
• For a diabetic-friendly version, you can reduce or avoid the jaggery and rely on the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.