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Guide to Slow Cooked Indian Carrot Pudding: A Winter Masterpiece

looking to expand their dessert repertoire beyond pumpkin pie and cobblers, this Carrot Pudding offers a gluten-free, vegetable-forward alternative that is pure luxury on a spoon.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • The Base:
  • 2.2 lbs 1 kg Fresh Carrots, peeled and grated (medium grate)
  • 4 cups Whole Milk Full fat is essential
  • Flavor & Sweetener:
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup Clarified Butter Ghee
  • 1 tsp Green Cardamom powder freshly ground
  • Richness & Crunch:
  • 1 cup Milk Solids Khoya/Mawa or dried Ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cashews
  • 1/4 cup Golden Raisins

Instructions

  • Prep the Carrots: Peel and grate the carrots using the medium holes of a box grater. Avoid using a food processor "blade" as it releases too much moisture and ruins the texture.
  • Milk Reduction: In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or pot, combine the grated carrots and whole milk. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Slow Simmer: Lower the heat to medium. Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the milk has completely evaporated and the carrots are soft. This "reduction" creates the creamy base.
  • Sweeten: Stir in the sugar and cardamom powder. The mixture will become liquid again as the sugar melts.
  • Evaporate Moisture: Continue to cook and stir until the moisture from the sugar has dried up and the mixture begins to thicken.
  • The Sauté (Bhuna): Add the clarified butter (ghee). Sauté the carrot mixture on medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the deep ruby-red color and aromatic depth.
  • Add Richness: Crumble the milk solids (Khoya) into the pot. Stir gently for 2–3 minutes until the solids are warmed through but still retain some visible texture.
  • The Garnish: Fold in the almonds, cashews, and raisins. Mix well and cook for a final minute.
  • Serve: Enjoy warm for the most traditional experience, or chilled with a side of vanilla bean ice cream.