Indulge in the rich flavors of Vegan Gajar Halwa, a plant-based twist on the traditional Indian dessert that’s packed with aromatic spices and natural sweetness. This dairy-free recipe features freshly grated carrots simmered in creamy almond milk, delicately sweetened with coconut sugar, and infused with the warm aroma of cardamom and saffron. Coconut oil adds a luscious texture, while golden raisins and roasted cashew nuts provide delightful bursts of flavor in every bite. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla, this vegan dessert is a wholesome, guilt-free treat that’s ideal for festive gatherings or as a cozy after-dinner indulgence. Ready in just under an hour, this easy vegan gajar halwa is as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Wash and peel the carrots. Grate them using a medium-sized grater to ensure even cooking.
In a large non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
Stir in the almond milk and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until the milk is almost absorbed. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
While the carrot mixture is cooking, lightly crush the cardamom pods to release their seeds.
Once the almond milk is mostly absorbed, add the coconut sugar, cardamom seeds, saffron strands, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the flavors to meld.
In a small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat. Add the raisins and cashew nuts, sautéing them until the raisins puff up and the cashews turn golden brown.
Stir the sautéed raisins and cashews, along with the vanilla extract, into the carrot mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Cook the halwa for an additional 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to come together.
Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional chopped cashews, if desired.
Calories |
1630 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.5 g | 93% | |
| Saturated Fat | 39.9 g | 200% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1108 mg | 48% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 243.8 g | 89% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.6 g | 66% | |
| Total Sugars | 195.4 g | ||
| Protein | 17.0 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.1 mcg | 21% | |
| Calcium | 1054 mg | 81% | |
| Iron | 9.7 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 2455 mg | 52% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.