Chana Dal Halwa Delight
Chana Dal Halwa Delight is a traditional Pakistani sweet dish that beautifully combines the rich nuttiness of split yellow lentils and the creaminess of nonfat dry milk powder. This comforting dessert is lightly sweetened to perfection and accented with the crunch of almond toppings, making it a healthier option for those who love indulging in traditional sweets. Perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat after a meal, this halwa is not just delicious but also packed with protein and flavor. Share the joy of this wholesome dessert with family and friends!
6
Servings
120
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
split yellow lentils (Chana Lentils)
150 g (soaked for at least 1 hour)
low calorie sweetener
50 g (none)
nonfat dry milk powder
100 g (none)
oil
6 tablespoons (none)
almonds
10 g (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by soaking the split yellow lentils in water for at least 1 hour to soften them.
2
After soaking, drain the lentils and place them in a pot with 4 cups of fresh water. Cook them over medium heat until the lentils are tender, about 20-30 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess water and let them cool.
3
In a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cooked lentils along with any residual water.
4
Stir in the nonfat dry milk powder and cook the mixture, allowing it to come to a gentle boil.
5
Once boiling, gradually add the low-calorie sweetener while continuously stirring to prevent sticking.
6
Cook the mixture, stirring regularly, until it reduces and darkens in color, approximately 15-20 minutes. Continue to stir until the mixture reaches a soft, halwa-like consistency and all water evaporates.
7
Remove from heat and transfer the halwa to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped almonds before serving.
Nutrition Information
17 g
Carbs
5 g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chana Dal Halwa Delight?
Chana Dal Halwa Delight is a traditional Pakistani sweet dish made from split yellow lentils, nonfat dry milk powder, and low-calorie sweetener.
Is this recipe for Chana Dal Halwa healthy?
Yes, this version is designed as a healthier option by using nonfat dry milk and a low-calorie sweetener while remaining protein-packed.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include 150g of split yellow lentils, 100g of nonfat dry milk powder, 50g of low-calorie sweetener, 6 tablespoons of oil, and 10g of almonds.
How long should I soak the lentils?
The split yellow lentils should be soaked for at least 1 hour to soften them before cooking.
What kind of lentils are used in this halwa?
The recipe calls for Chana Lentils, also known as split yellow lentils.
How much protein is in a serving of this halwa?
Each serving provides 5 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate content?
Each serving contains 17 grams of carbohydrates.
How long do the lentils need to boil?
Cook the lentils in 4 cups of water for about 20-30 minutes until they are tender.
What type of milk is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 100g of nonfat dry milk powder to provide a creamy texture.
How much sweetener is required?
You will need 50g of a low-calorie sweetener.
What is the purpose of oil in this recipe?
Six tablespoons of oil are used to fry the cooked lentils and develop the flavor and texture of the halwa.
What is used for garnishing?
The halwa is garnished with 10g of chopped almonds.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Chana Dal Halwa Delight is a vegetarian-friendly dessert.
How do I achieve the right consistency?
Cook the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring regularly, until it reduces, darkens, and all water evaporates.
Can I serve this at festive occasions?
Absolutely, it is a traditional Pakistani dessert perfect for festive celebrations and special treats.
What should I do after boiling the lentils?
After boiling, drain any excess water and let the lentils cool before frying them in the oil.
Why must I stir the mixture continuously when adding sweetener?
Continuous stirring is necessary to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan and to ensure even distribution.
How much water is needed to cook the lentils?
You will need 4 cups of fresh water to cook the lentils after they have been soaked.
Is this recipe high in fat?
The recipe uses 6 tablespoons of oil for 6 servings, making it relatively moderate, though the exact fat gram count is not specified.
What is the origin of this dish?
This is a traditional sweet dish from Pakistan.
Can I use regular sugar instead of sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute sugar, but the calorie count and 'healthy dessert' profile will change.
Does this halwa contain fiber?
While the exact fiber count isn't listed, lentils are naturally high in fiber, contributing to the nutritional value.
What temperature should I use for frying the lentils?
The lentils should be fried over medium heat.
How do I know when the lentils are cooked?
The lentils are ready when they are tender, which usually takes 20-30 minutes of boiling.
Can I use a different nut for garnish?
Yes, while almonds are traditional, you could use pistachios or cashews if preferred.
Is the milk powder added before or after the sweetener?
The milk powder is stirred in first, and once the mixture comes to a boil, the sweetener is added.
What is the texture of Chana Dal Halwa?
It has a soft, thick, and slightly grainy consistency typical of traditional South Asian halwas.
Can this be served warm?
Yes, halwa is traditionally served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.