Beetroot Halwa Recipe | Easy, Delicious & Nutritious Indian Dessert
Learn how to make rich and vibrant Beetroot Halwa — a South Indian-style dessert made with grated beetroot, milk, and ghee. Perfect for festivals, prasad, or winter treats!
Beetroot Halwa, also known as Chukandar ka Halwa, is a vibrant and healthy Indian dessert that brings color and nourishment to your festive plate. Originating from South India, this halwa is a delightful fusion of earthy beetroot flavor, creamy milk, aromatic ghee, and cardamom.
It’s not just a sweet treat — it’s a power-packed dessert rich in iron and fiber, often prepared during Navratri, Diwali, or Krishna Janmashtami. Whether served warm or chilled, this halwa captures the beauty of Indian home desserts with a modern, health-forward touch.
🥄 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 cups grated beetroot (about 2 medium-sized beets)
2 tbsp ghee
2 cups full-fat milk
½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
4 tbsp grated khoya (optional for richness)
¼ tsp cardamom powder
8–10 cashews
10 raisins
🔥 Step-by-Step Recipe (Beetroot Halwa Recipe)
Step 1: Prepare Beetroot
Wash, peel, and grate the beetroot finely. Ensure it’s fresh and firm for the best color and flavor.
Step 2: Roast in Ghee
Heat ghee in a thick-bottomed pan. Add grated beetroot and sauté for 5–7 minutes until the raw aroma fades and the beetroot becomes slightly soft.
Step 3: Add Milk and Simmer
Pour in the milk and stir continuously. Let it simmer on low flame until the beetroot absorbs the milk — this may take 10–12 minutes.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Khoya
Once most of the milk evaporates, add sugar and mix well. The mixture will loosen slightly. Stir until it thickens again. Add khoya for richer texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Finish
Add cardamom powder, fried cashews, and raisins. Cook for another 2 minutes. Turn off the flame when the halwa starts leaving the sides of the pan.
🍽️ Serving & Plating Tips
Serve warm in silver katoris for festive presentation.
Garnish with a few pistachio slivers or saffron strands for visual appeal.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fusion dessert twist.
🧊 Storage
Store Beetroot Halwa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with 1 tsp ghee or a splash of milk before serving.
💪 Health Benefits
Iron & Folate: Boosts hemoglobin levels naturally.
Low in Fat: When made with minimal ghee and less sugar.
Detoxifying: Beetroot helps cleanse the liver and supports digestion.
🧠 Quick Facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 25 mins |
| Total Time | 35 mins |
| Servings | 4 |
| Course | Dessert |
| Cuisine | Indian (South Indian style) |
🪷 Tips & Variations
Use jaggery instead of sugar for a rustic, earthy sweetness.
Replace milk with almond milk for a vegan version.
Add a spoonful of coconut milk for Kerala-style halwa richness.
🔗 UseFull Links
❓ FAQs
1. Is Beetroot Halwa healthy?
Yes, Beetroot Halwa is rich in iron, antioxidants, and fiber. It’s a great alternative to heavy, sugar-laden sweets.
2. Can I make Beetroot Halwa without milk?
Absolutely. Use almond milk or coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.
3. Why does my halwa turn watery?
It usually happens if beetroot isn’t sautéed properly or the milk ratio is too high. Always cook until it leaves the pan sides.
4. How to make Beetroot Halwa for fasting (vrat)?
Skip khoya and use jaggery instead of sugar. Cook in ghee and milk for a sattvik version.
5. Can I use leftover boiled beetroot?
Preferably not, as it may lack the depth of flavor. Fresh grated beetroot gives the best texture.
Beetroot Halwa Recipe is a beautiful example of how Indian sweets balance tradition and nutrition. Its bright color, rich aroma, and smooth texture make it a perfect festive dessert for all ages. Try this halwa today and let the goodness of beetroot add health and joy to your celebrations!