Halwa

Halwa is a sweet dish made out of grain and a sweetener such as jaggary, dates, or sugar. It can be a part of heavy breakfast, brunch, or evening party. Halwa is often combined with other dishes in combinations such as "Halwa-Puri-Sabji" or "Halwa-Pohe." Other names for Halwa include Laapshi in Marwad or Satyanaryan Pooja Prasad on Hindu religious occasions.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 cup cream of wheat ( 10 minute variety )
  
• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
  
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 cups water or milk
• 6 pods of cardamom powdered
• 8-10 strands of saffron, powdered or soaked in 1 tablespoon of water
• Almond or cashews and raisins for decoration

Directions:

1. In a 10" non-stick pan, add the butter and let it melt on medium heat. Cover the bottom and sides by swirling 1-2 times.
2. Add cream of wheat and using wooden spatula mix it and move it to and fro until it turns brownish and is uniformly roasted.
3. Add water/milk slowly while mixing it and cover.
   
4. Let the pot simmer for 10 minutes at low heat.
5. Add sugar and mix well. If the halwa still looks dry, add a little liquid. Again cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes at low heat.
6. Turn off the stove. Add cardamom and saffron. Decorate with dry fruits.
   

There are many variations of this. If you master the basic Halwa dish, then you can easily learn to make Gajar Halwa, Doodhi Halwa, Daalka Halwa, Badamka Halwa and other Halwa varieties.