Moong Dal Halwa (vegan)

Moong Dal Halwa (vegan)

Moong Dal Halwa is a delicious and festive sweet from North India. It is a rich, creamy pudding-like dessert. I like Moong Dal Halwa, but it is a long process and for me stirring the halwa was becoming difficult. While trying to make the process easy I also decided to make it vegan. I was happily surprised by the result. This is a must to try the recipe. This recipe will serve 4.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

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• ½ cup split yellow Moong dal washed
• ¼ cup grapeseed oil is my preferred oil
• ½ cup sugar
• 1/8 tsp cardamom powder
• few strands saffron optional
• 2 ½ cups water

For Garnishing

• 2 tsp sliced almonds

Instructions

 

• Clean the moong dal rubbing with a moist towel.
• Boil water and sugar in a pan over medium heat, for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Add cardamom powder and saffron set aside.
• In a heavy bottom frying pan, roast moong dal over medium-low heat. Keep stir-frying till it’s light brown in color and becomes aromatic. Make sure to cook on low heat otherwise dal will not be toasted inside. This will take about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
• Once dal comes to room temperature, grind it to a powder lightly grainy.
• In a heavy bottom frying pan, add oil and roasted moong dal powder, mix it well, and again roast over medium low heat for about 3 minutes. Dal will become dark in brown. Notes: After adding the syrup color will become a little lighter.
• Add syrup to the dal, a little at a time. The syrup will splatter as you are adding syrup, keep stirring and mix it well, cook for 2-3 minutes. Halwa should be the texture of soft sticky dough.
• Serve the halwa warm.

Notes

If you are not vegan and want to use clarified butter (ghee), replace the oil with 1/3 cup of ghee rest of the recipe remains the same.

I have tried many different oils and vegan butter, but I prefer grape seed oil. It has become a preferred oil to make any vegan dessert.

For making the halwa, traditional way is a long process and requires lots of work from the hands. For me, stirring the halwa was becoming difficult. You must soak dal for a few hours and grind it to a smooth paste. Then, cook over low heat with ghee, stirring continuously for about 40 minutes. The whole process not including soaking dal takes about one hour.

If you enjoy Indian sweets and you are on the dairy-free diet you should also try:

• Vegan Rice Kheer (Payasam)
• Vegan Jello (Gelatin Free Jello)
• Apple Coconut Barfi
• Vegan Chocolate Pudding

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Indulge in the Richness of Vegan Moong Dal Halwa

Moong Dal Halwa is a classic Indian dessert known for its rich flavour and indulgent texture. This vegan version of Moong Dal Halwa is a perfect way to enjoy the traditional dessert while adhering to a plant-based diet. In this article, we’ll explore the essence of this delightful vegan moong dal halwa recipe, its origins, health benefits, and tips for making it at home.

The Essence of Vegan Moong Dal Halwa

The vegan moong dal halwa is made with split yellow moong dal (lentils), grape seed oil or other instead of ghee and a blend of aromatic spices. This dessert is known for its creamy texture and rich taste, making it a perfect treat for festive occasions or any time you crave something sweet and indulgent.

Origins and Cultural Significance

Moong Dal Halwa has been a staple in Indian households for centuries, often prepared during festivals and special celebrations. This dessert is particularly popular in North India, where it is enjoyed during winter months to provide warmth and nourishment. The vegan version retains all the traditional flavours and textures while offering a plant-based alternative.

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Moong Dal Halwa

Soak the Lentils: Soaking the moong dal overnight or for at least a few hours helps in reducing the cooking time and achieving a smooth texture for the halwa.

 Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using fresh and high-quality ingredients like organic coconut milk, pure saffron, and freshly ground cardamom will enhance the flavour of the vegan moong dal halwa recipe.

Patience is Key: Cooking moong dal halwa requires patience as it needs to be cooked on low heat with constant stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Health Benefits of Moong Dal Halwa

Moong dal is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in protein, fibre, and essential vitamins. This makes moong dal halwa not just delicious but also nutritious. The use of coconut or almond milk adds healthy fats and a creamy texture without any dairy. For more health-focused recipes, check out Millet Soup (Bajra Raab) and Sweet Potato Chaat.

Variations to Try

While the classic vegan moong dal halwa is delightful on its own, you can experiment with various ingredients to create interesting variations. Adding nuts like almonds, cashews, or pistachios can add a delightful crunch to the halwa. You can also flavor the halwa with different essences like rose or kewra for a unique twist. For more creative ideas, explore Vegetable Biryani and Spicy Indian Flour Chips.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This vegan moong dal halwa is best enjoyed warm, garnished with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of saffron strands. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of masala chai or as a sweet ending to a festive meal. You can also serve it alongside other Indian sweets like Dodha Burfi (Punjabi Milk Fudge) or Sweet and Sour Guava Curry for a delightful dessert spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this halwa ahead of time?

A: Yes, the vegan moong dal halwa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it on low heat before serving, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.

Q: Is this halwa suitable for freezing?

A: Absolutely. This halwa freezes well. Simply cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How can I adjust the sweetness of the halwa?

A: You can adjust the sweetness of the halwa by adding more or less sugar according to your taste. You can also use natural sweeteners like jaggery or maple syrup as alternatives.

Conclusion

The vegan moong dal halwa recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Indian dessert with a plant-based twist. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this indulgent dessert is sure to impress. With its rich flavours and creamy texture, this dish is perfect for any celebration or a special treat. For more exciting recipes and variations, explore other delightful dishes like Masala Bell Pepper Curry, Vegetable Biryani, and Spicy Indian Flour Chips. Enjoy the journey of flavors and happy cooking!