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Lauki Halva Recipe

Lauki Halva Recipe offered to Krishna in a copper bowl with nut topping.
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Hare Krishna Lauki Halva is a creamy and flavorful dessert, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This halva recipe uses grated bottle gourd, milk, sugar, and ghee to create a unique treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, preparing and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Halva:

  • 2 cups grated bottle gourd (lauki) (300g)
  • 2 cups milk (480 ml)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (100g)
  • 1/4 cup ghee (60 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
  • 2 tablespoons raisins

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bottle Gourd: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the grated bottle gourd and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it softens and releases its aroma.
  2. Add the Milk: Pour in the milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the milk is almost fully absorbed by the bottle gourd. This process may take 15-20 minutes.
  3. Sweeten the Halva: Add sugar and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the halva thickens and begins to leave the sides of the pan. Stir in cardamom powder, chopped nuts, and raisins.
  4. Serve Warm: Serve the lauki halva warm with your favorite side dish.

Notes

  • Variation: Add a few strands of saffron soaked in warm milk for an enhanced flavor and color.
  • Storage: Store any leftover halva in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://harekrishnarecipes.com/recipes/desserts-sweets/lauki-halva-recipe/