Authentic Ashoka Halwa (Moong Dal Halwa) Recipe from Tanjore

40 minutes

1130 reads

4 from 3 votes

About Authentic Ashoka Halwa (Moong Dal Halwa) Recipe from Tanjore

Indulge in the rich, velvety sweetness of authentic Ashoka Halwa, a treasured South Indian dessert hailing from the Tanjore region of Tamil Nadu. This traditional moong dal halwa is a delightful departure from its North Indian counterparts, boasting a unique texture and flavor profile that's perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat.
This recipe meticulously guides you through each step, ensuring a flawlessly smooth and aromatic halwa. Prepare to be amazed by the delightful contrast of creamy moong dal, fragrant cardamom, and the subtle nutty notes of ghee.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this detailed recipe makes creating this unforgettable South Indian classic simple and rewarding. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this culinary masterpiece!
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Stop Thinking About What to Cook Every Day

Weight loss, PCOS, and Healthy Eating, all planned out for you. Just follow the plan and cook. From ₹499.

Explore Meal Plans

Recipe Time & More

Prep10 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total40 minutes
Calories412 kcal
Serves3
Recipe TasteSweet

Ingredients
 

For the Moong Dal

  • 1/2 cup Mung Bean also known as split yellow lentils, split, yellow
  • 1 1/4 cup Water for cooking the dal; adjust as needed for desired consistency

For the Halwa

  • 3/4 cup Sugar adjust to your preferred sweetness
  • 2 tbsp Whole Wheat Flour atta, whole
  • 1/2 cup Ghee clarified butter (desi ghee) - use a good quality ghee for best flavor
  • 1/4 tsp Food Coloring orange or yellow, optional. use a high-quality gel food coloring for best results.
  • 1 tsp Cardamom Powder freshly ground cardamom powder is ideal for the best flavor

For Garnish

  • 10-12 Cashews halved or chopped
Start Focussed Cooking Mode →

Instructions
 

Prepare the Moong Dal

  • Cook 1/2 cup yellow split moong dal in 1 1/4 cups water in a pressure cooker until soft. Allow pressure to release naturally.

Mash the Dal

  • Mash the cooked moong dal thoroughly until completely smooth and creamy. This is crucial for a smooth halwa.

Fry the Cashews

  • Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in a pan. Add the cashews and fry until golden brown. Set aside.

Roast the Wheat Flour

  • In the same pan, add 2 tbsp of whole wheat flour and stir continuously over low heat until it turns a light golden brown. Be careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Halwa

  • In a nonstick pan, add the mashed moong dal and sugar. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns glossy.

Add Ghee Gradually

  • Continue stirring, gradually adding the remaining ghee (1/2 cup), 1 tbsp at a time, until the halwa thickens and starts to release oil from the sides of the pan.

Incorporate Flavorings

  • Add the food coloring (if using) and cardamom powder. Mix well.

Combine and Finish

  • Stir in the roasted wheat flour and fried cashews. Continue to stir until the halwa reaches the desired consistency, pulling away from the sides of the pan. Turn off the heat.

Serve

  • Serve the Ashoka Halwa hot or warm.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Perfect Ashoka Halwa

  • Use high-quality ghee for the best flavor and aroma. The quality of the ghee significantly impacts the final taste.
  • Don't rush the cooking process; low and slow cooking ensures a smooth, well-cooked halwa. Patience is key!
  • Properly mashing the moong dal is essential for the desired texture. Use a potato masher or immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
  • Adjust the sugar quantity to your preference. Taste and adjust as you cook.
Explore Recipes by Tags dessert recipessweet recipes

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4 from 3 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 412kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 64mgSodium: 10mgPotassium: 2mgFiber: 2gSugar: 34gVitamin A: 33IUVitamin C: 0.01mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Joshie Sharmila
Joshie Sharmila

Software Engineer by profession but a food blogger by passion.. Welcome to my culinary journey!!

Articles: 1
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Guest Post / Advertise on Plattershare

Writers, food bloggers & brands - collaborate with us

See Details

3 Comments

4 from 3 votes

Leave a Reply