Winters are almost here and we cannot be more excited! This means we can finally have all the winter-special foods! While decadent hot chocolate, hearty soups and stews are a given, what makes us truly happy are the fresh seasonal winter veggies that throng the markets and into our kitchens for mouth-watering dishes. Be it the vibrant beetroot, nutritious Indian gooseberry (amla) or the deep-red carrots, not only are these winter vegetables nutritious but are versatile enough for tasty delicacies!
Gajar (carrot) is one crunchy, yummy and nutritious vegetable that even though is available all year round, one can find it fresh all over in the markets during the winter season and are bagged by those who love making seasonal treats such as gajar ka halwa! But did you know that there's so much more to these crunchy, crispy and subtle sweet vegetable than just that? A great source of antioxidants, vitamin A and C, carrots are used across vegetables, dal, salads and desserts.
(Also Read: 13 Best Carrot Recipes)
Did you know that you can also make a yummy murabba with gajar too!? Yes, you read that right. Traditionally prepared with spices, sugar and fruits, murabba is a common part of Indian households. While amle ka murabba is the most popular one, it can be made with many different ingredients. Winters are often characterised by murabba, a gooey sweet and sour candied fruit that is loved across age groups!
Here is how one can make wholesome and tasty gajar ka murabba at home:
Ingredients:
. Carrots (blanched and peeled)- 500 gms
. Sugar- 200 gms
. Lemon (juiced)- 2
. Cardamom powder- 1 tsp
. Saffron (optional)- 1/2 tsp
Method:
1. Prick holes in the blanched carrots to slightly break them.
2. Place these carrots in a non-stick pan, add enough water to cook covered.
3. Add sugar and lemon juice and let it cook for some time.
4. Keep stirring the mixture occasionally and let it cook till the syrup reaches one-thread consistency.
5. Now add saffron and cardamom to it and cook till the carrot softens. Cool and store in a glass jar.
Try this gajar ka murabba recipe at home and share your experience in the comments section below.