Sooji Ka Halwa

Sooji Ka Halwa, also known as Semolina Halwa or Rava Kesari, is a classic Indian dessert that holds a special place in festive celebrations and religious rituals. During the Navratras fasting period, this delightful sweet dish becomes even more cherished, offering a comforting and indulgent treat for devotees abstaining from grains and non-vegetarian food. Made from semolina (sooji) cooked in ghee, sweetened with sugar, and flavored with aromatic spices like cardamom, Sooji Ka Halwa is a symbol of warmth, love, and tradition. Its soft and velvety texture, combined with the richness of ghee and the fragrance of cardamom, creates a sensory experience that’s both uplifting and satisfying. Whether served hot or cold, Sooji Ka Halwa is sure to evoke feelings of joy and contentment, making it a beloved dessert for Navratras and beyond.
The beauty of Sooji Ka Halwa lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish can be whipped up in no time, yet it never fails to impress with its irresistible flavor and comforting aroma. Whether enjoyed as a prasad (offering) during puja ceremonies or served as a sweet indulgence after a hearty meal, Sooji Ka Halwa is a timeless classic that brings people together and creates cherished memories. Sooji Ka Halwa is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition, spirituality, and the joy of sharing sweetness with loved ones.
Ingredients Required for Making Sooji Ka Halwa

- Semolina (सूजी) – 1 cup
- Ghee (घी) – 1/2 cup
- Sugar (चीनी) – 3/4 cup
- Water (पानी) – 2 cups
- Cardamom powder (इलायची पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Almonds (बादाम) – 2 tablespoons, sliced (for garnish)
- Raisins (किशमिश) – 2 tablespoons (optional, for garnish)
Step-wise Process of Making Sooji Ka Halwa
- Roast the Semolina: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add ghee and allow it to melt. Once the ghee is hot, add the semolina (sooji) to the pan.
- Cook the Semolina: Roast the semolina in ghee, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This should take about 7-8 minutes on medium-low heat. Be careful not to burn the semolina.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a separate saucepan, heat water and sugar together until the sugar dissolves completely, forming a syrup. Add cardamom powder to the syrup for flavor.
- Combine Semolina and Sugar Syrup: Once the semolina is roasted to perfection, carefully pour the hot sugar syrup into the pan. Be cautious as it may splutter.
- Cook Until Thickened: Stir the mixture continuously as it thickens. The semolina will absorb the syrup and thicken to a pudding-like consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the halwa reaches the desired consistency and starts to leave the sides of the pan, remove it from the heat. Garnish with sliced almonds and raisins (if using).
Number of Servings
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Consistency: The key to a perfect Sooji Ka Halwa is achieving the right consistency. Cook the halwa until it reaches a thick, pudding-like texture.
- Roasting Semolina: Take care to roast the semolina evenly until it turns golden brown. This step enhances the flavor of the halwa.
- Sugar Syrup: Ensure that the sugar syrup is hot when added to the roasted semolina. This helps in preventing lumps and ensures even mixing.
- Garnish: Garnish the Sooji Ka Halwa with sliced almonds and raisins for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve Sooji Ka Halwa

Serve Sooji Ka Halwa hot or warm, garnished with sliced almonds and raisins, as a delightful dessert or prasad during Navratras fasting. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat on its own or paired with pooris or puris for a more indulgent experience.
Final Thoughts…
Sooji Ka Halwa is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of tradition, love, and togetherness. During the Navratras fasting period, this delectable sweet dish brings joy and sweetness to the hearts of devotees, offering a moment of indulgence amidst spiritual observances. With its rich flavor, comforting aroma, and velvety texture, Sooji Ka Halwa is a timeless classic that continues to be cherished and celebrated across generations.
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