Almond and Peach Halwa (Gluten-free)
This almond halwa is made with blanched almonds, milk and sugar. I added some (canned) peaches for a fruity twist. The stone fruit adds a touch of tartness that contrasts well with the richness of the ghee and almonds. The halwa is best served warm.
This recipe does require some amount of prep, but it does not entail spending the entire day in the kitchen. It’s just the kind of indulgent dessert you need to make a slow day special.
Recipe
Almond and Peach Halwa
(Serves 4)
Ingredients
1 cup raw almonds
2 cups boiling water
2/3 cup + 2 tbsp milk (full fat works best)
1/3 cup ghee
1 tbsp cashew halves
1/2 - 2/3 cup raw sugar (add more or less according to your personal preference)
Pinch of saffron
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1 cup chopped canned peaches (drained)
Method
Place the almonds in a heat-proof mixing bowl. Add the boiling water. Cover and soak for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile measure out all the other ingredients.
Combine 2 tbsp of milk and the saffron in a small microwave-safe bowl. Place it in the microwave and heat on high for 10 seconds, stir the mixture and set aside to steep.
Heat 3 tbsp of ghee in a wide nonstick pan over medium-low heat. Add the cashews and fry until golden brown. Drain, remove them from the pan and set aside for later.
Drain the soaked almonds. Remove and discard the peels. Rinse the blanched almonds well and drain. Combine the almonds and 2/3 cup of milk in a blender. Blend (stirring a few times) until you get a fairly smooth paste.
Transfer the almond paste to the pan with the ghee. Cook over low heat, stirring and scraping down the sides for 2-3 minutes.
Add the sugar and saffron-infused milk along with another tablespoon of ghee. Continue to stir the mixture constantly until it thickens (about 12-15 minutes).
Add the remaining ghee and stir until the halwa starts to leave the sides of the pan and comes together. Turn off the heat. If you cook the halwa too long, it will have a fudge-like texture.
Stir in the ground cardamom and chopped peaches and mix well. Garnish the almond halwa with the fried cashews and serve warm.
