Traditional Banana Halwa Recipe – South Indian Kele Ka Halwa

Banana Halwa, also known as Kele Ka Halwa in Hindi, Balehannina Halwa in Kannada, and Pazham Halwa in Tamil, is a beloved dessert in South India. It’s crafted using ripe bananas, jaggery, and ghee, resulting in a delectable sweet with a melt-in-the-mouth texture. This halwa is often prepared during festive occasions and is cherished for its rich flavor and simplicity.

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Description

Ingredients

  • Ripe Bananas: 1 kg, peeled and sliced

  • Ghee: ¼ cup

  • Jaggery: ½ kg

  • Water: ¼ cup

  • Cardamom Powder: ¼ teaspoon

  • Cashews: 3 tablespoons, roasted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Banana Puree:

    • Peel and slice the ripe bananas.

    • Blend them into a smooth puree and set aside.

  2. Cook the Banana Mixture:

    • In a large kadai or pan, heat ¼ cup of ghee.

    • Add the banana puree and cook on medium flame, stirring continuously.

    • Continue cooking until the mixture turns glossy and the raw banana smell disappears.

  3. Prepare Jaggery Syrup:

    • In a separate pan, combine ½ kg jaggery and ¼ cup water.

    • Heat until the jaggery dissolves completely, forming a syrup.

  4. Combine and Cook:

    • Pour the jaggery syrup into the cooked banana mixture.

    • Mix well and continue stirring to combine thoroughly.

    • As the mixture thickens, add ghee in batches, ensuring each addition is absorbed before adding the next.

    • Cook until the halwa starts to hold its shape and ghee separates from the sides.

  5. Add Flavorings and Nuts:

    • Stir in ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder and roasted cashews.

    • Mix well to distribute evenly.

  6. Set the Halwa:

    • Transfer the halwa into a tray lined with baking paper.

    • Level the surface and let it rest for about 3 hours to set.

    • Once set, cut into desired pieces and serve.

Tips:

  • Banana Selection: Use overripe bananas for a richer sweetness and enhanced flavor.

  • Consistent Stirring: Continuous stirring prevents the mixture from sticking to the pan and ensures even cooking.

  • Ghee Addition: Adding ghee in batches helps achieve the desired glossy texture and prevents the halwa from becoming too greasy.

  • Setting Time: Allowing the halwa to rest ensures it sets properly, making it easier to cut into pieces.

Nutrition

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 250 kcal
Carbohydrates 55 g
Protein 2 g
Fats 5 g
Fiber 3 g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient variations.

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