Moong dal halwa recipe (Indian dessert):
If there's one Indian dessert that truly melts hearts, it's Moong Dal Halwa! Rich in taste, full of ghee, and loaded with dry fruits – this halwa is a royal treat that brings back memories of weddings, winter celebrations, and festivals like Diwali and Holi. Made with yellow moong dal, pure desi ghee, milk, and sugar, this traditional Indian sweet has a slow-cooked magic that makes it irresistible.
Whether you're craving something warm and sweet or planning a festive menu, moong dal halwa recipe is the perfect choice. It may take a little time and effort, but the result is a rich, aromatic, and flavorful Indian dessert that’s totally worth it. So let’s get started and make this ghee-filled delight right at home!
About moong dal halwa :
Halwas are one of the most loved traditional Indian sweets, made using ingredients like ghee, sugar, milk, and different flours or lentils. From suji halwa to atta halwa, each variety has its own fan base. But one sweet that stands out for its rich taste and festive feel is the Moong Dal Halwa. Made with yellow moong dal, desi ghee, cardamom, and topped with dry fruits, this halwa is a royal treat.
It’s especially famous in Rajasthan and North India, where it's often served at weddings and winter gatherings. People love this Indian dessert not just for its melt-in-mouth texture but also for the aromatic flavors of slow-roasted dal in ghee. Whether it's Diwali, Holi, or a family celebration, moong dal halwa recipe is always a showstopper. Its richness and warmth make it a favorite among all age groups.
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Ingredients for Moong Dal Halwa
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1 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)
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1 cup ghee (desi ghee for rich flavor)
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1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
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2 cups full cream milk
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1/2 cup water
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1/4 tsp cardamom powder (elaichi)
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10-12 chopped cashews
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8-10 chopped almonds
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A few strands of saffron (optional, for color and aroma)
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5-6 raisins
How to Make Moong Dal Halwa – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Soak the Moong Dal
Start by washing 1 cup of yellow moong dal thoroughly. Soak it in enough water for about 3 to 4 hours. This softens the dal and makes it easy to grind later.
Step 2: Grind the Dal to a Paste
After soaking, drain the water and grind the dal into a coarse paste without adding extra water. A little grainy texture in the paste helps give the halwa its signature bite.
Step 3: Roast the Dal in Ghee
Heat 1 cup of desi ghee in a heavy-bottomed kadhai or pan. Add the moong dal paste and begin roasting it on low to medium flame. Stir continuously to avoid burning. This step takes time (30-40 minutes), but it's the most important for getting that rich, nutty flavor and golden color.
Step 4: Prepare the Milk-Sugar Mix
While the dal is roasting, heat 2 cups of milk with 1/2 cup water and 1 cup of sugar in a separate pan. Stir until the sugar dissolves. You can also add a few saffron strands for added aroma and color.
Step 5: Mix and Cook Together
Once the dal is nicely roasted and ghee starts to separate, slowly add the warm milk-sugar mixture to the dal. Be careful as it may splutter. Cook the mixture while stirring continuously until all the liquid is absorbed and the halwa thickens.
Step 6: Add Cardamom and Dry Fruits
Now add 1/4 tsp cardamom powder, chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the dry fruits are lightly roasted and the halwa looks glossy and fragrant.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve the Moong Dal Halwa hot, garnished with extra nuts if you like. It’s rich, warm, and perfect for festivals, winters, or celebrations.
FAQs – Moong Dal Halwa Recipe
Q1. Can I make Moong Dal Halwa without soaking the dal?
It's not recommended. Soaking helps soften the dal, making it easier to grind and cook. Skipping this step can affect the texture of the halwa.
Q2. Why is my Moong Dal Halwa sticky and not grainy?
This usually happens if the dal wasn't roasted enough or if the paste was too smooth. Always grind coarsely and roast patiently until golden brown.
Q3. Can I use oil instead of ghee in this halwa?
Ghee is the key ingredient that gives moong dal halwa its rich and authentic taste. Using oil will not give the same flavor or aroma.
Q4. How long can I store Moong Dal Halwa?
You can store it in the fridge for up to 5–6 days in an airtight container. Just reheat it with a little ghee or milk before serving.
Conclusion
Moong Dal Halwa is more than just a dessert – it’s a warm, festive hug in every spoonful! With its rich aroma, golden color, and melt-in-mouth texture, this traditional Indian sweet has won hearts across generations. Whether you're celebrating a festival, hosting a party, or simply craving something indulgent, this moong dal halwa recipe is a perfect pick. Made with ghee, dal, and love – it’s truly a royal treat worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Try it once, and it’ll surely become a favorite in your home too!
