Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa) Complete Recipe + Ingredients List
What is Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa)? – An introduction
Creating a delightful dessert doesn’t mean you need to stick to traditional recipes. Almond (Badam) Halwa is a luxurious Indian treat that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply when you’re in the mood for something sweet and rich. Its texture is reminiscent of semolina pudding but with the nutty goodness of almonds taking center stage. The creamy consistency and aromatic spices will surely make this dish a hit among your loved ones. Let’s dive into the making of this classic dessert, starting with a convenient method that spares you the almond-peeling hassle if you have almond flour handy. If not, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered there too. Here’s how to whip up this indulgent sweet:
Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa) Ingredients List
- ¾ cup badam / almonds ((or 1 cup blanched almond flour))
- ½ cup sugar ((1 tbsp more for sweeter halwa))
- 1 pinch saffron (or kesar (optional) or natural food color)
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder (or ealichi)
- ¾ cup water (or milk (1¼ cup for Instant pot))
- ¼ to ½ cup ghee (or 2 to 3 tbsp virgin coconut oil)
- ¼ teaspoon rose water (optional)
Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa) Recipe
- If using whole almonds, boil 2 cups of water and let the almonds blanch for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain, place them in fresh water for 30 to 40 minutes, then peel off the skins. If using almond flour, proceed to the next step.
- Whether you’re using whole peeled almonds or almond flour, combine them in a blender with cardamom pods, sugar, a pinch of saffron, and a splash of milk or water. Aim to achieve a texture similar to fine semolina, slightly coarse but well-integrated.
- Warm a nonstick or heavy bottom pan and melt 3 tablespoons of ghee.
- Stir in the blended almond mixture. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and cook until the Halwa begins to thicken.
- Introduce the remaining ghee in increments, making sure to stir continuously to encourage a glossy, non-sticky consistency. The halwa should pull away from the sides of the pan yet remain pourable. When you achieve this consistency, stir in an additional spoonful of ghee.
- For those with an Instant Pot, start by sautéing the almond flour in ghee using the SAUTE function. Then, cancel the function, adding sugar, your choice of water or milk, and saffron. Whisk to prevent lumps and ensure the sugar dissolves.
- Secure the lid, set the steam release valve to sealing, and select the PRESSURE COOK function, timing it to zero minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle ends, quickly release the steam. Stir in cardamom powder and return to SAUTE mode to thicken the halwa to your desired consistency. Cancel the cycle once it’s thick yet pourable.
Healthier Version of Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa) Recipe
- Swap the white sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia to reduce calorie content and provide a lower glycemic index.
- Replace some of the ghee with unsweetened applesauce to cut back on the fat without compromising on the rich texture and flavor.
- Opt for almond milk in place of dairy milk for a lighter, plant-based alternative that maintains the nutty flavor profile.
Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa) Recipe Nutritional Facts
Badam Halwa (Almond Flour Halwa) is a Indian dish with a calorie count of 78 kcal calories per serving. Per serving, it is estimated to have 14 g carbohydrates, – proteins, – fats, – sodium and 1 g sugar!
To create a healthier version of this indulgent almond halwa, consider these substitutions With small tweaks, this almond halwa can be enjoyed even by those watching their calorie intake, ensuring you don’t miss out on the joy of traditional Indian sweets. This Almond Halwa captures the essence of Indian celebrations, offering a sweet end to any meal. Its rich texture and comforting warmth highlight the versatility of almonds, while its simple preparation makes it an accessible luxury. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or as an after-dinner treat, this recipe promises to whisk you away on a culinary delight with each cardamom-scented bite. Embrace the tradition, enjoy the flavors, and always remember, a spoonful of Halwa is happiness in disguise!