Badam halwa or Almond halwa is a dessert prepared using soaked and peeled almond paste. It is a simple recipe made with just a few ingredients. It is a very common sweet dish prepared during festivals.

PREP TIME: 5 Mins (excluding the time to soak almonds)

COOKING TIME: 15 Mins

Ingredients

Almonds – 300 grams

Sugar – 1 cup

Milk – ¼ cup (Optional)

Saffron – 15 strands

Salt – 1 pinch

Procedure

STEP 1: Measure and soak the almonds in warm water for 2 – 3 hours.

STEP 2: Peel the skin from the soaked almonds and make a coarse paste.

STEP 3: Heat ghee in a pan and add the almond paste. Cook for 5 minutes or until the raw smell goes away from the almonds.

STEP 4: Add sugar and saffron to the almond and mix well. Add a pinch of salt. Cook on low heat for 5 – 7 minutes by continuously stirring. (OPTIONAL STEP: You can add milk at this stage if you like)

STEP 5: Once you have reached the desired consistency turn off the heat and transfer the halwa to the serving dish.

STEP 6: Garnish with some sliced almonds and saffron and serve.

TIP: Almond halwa can be served hot, cold or at room temperature. If you prefer the halwa to be thick cook the halwa for a little longer than 5 – 7 minutes (STEP 5)