Akhrot (Walnut) Halwa

To make Akhrot Halwa, start by melting 2 tbsp of desi ghee in a pan. Add 250 g of coarsely chopped walnuts and cook on low flame, stirring continuously until they turn light brown. Then, add 2 cups of milk and cook on medium flame, stirring occasionally until the milk reduces to about 1/4th. Next, mix in 0.75 cup of sugar and 0.5 tsp of cardamom powder, cooking until the sugar water dries. Finally, add 1 cup of milk powder and cook until the ghee separates and the halwa leaves the pan. Garnish with walnuts before serving.

Yes, Akhrot Halwa is naturally gluten-free as it is made with walnuts, milk, and sugar, without any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. It's a great dessert option for those following a gluten-free diet.

If you're looking to reduce sugar in your Akhrot Halwa, you can substitute it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, as these alternatives can be sweeter than regular sugar.

To store leftover Akhrot Halwa, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Akhrot Halwa pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast. You can also serve it alongside a cup of masala chai or coffee to enhance the flavors of this rich dessert.