Halwa Puri

Halwa Puri is an iconic breakfast known for its rich, flavourful, and indulgent nature. This popular dish is enjoyed on weekends, festivals, and special occasions, bringing families together over a feast of sweet and savoury flavours. Halwa, the sweet semolina-based dessert, pairs very nicely with the crispy, deep-fried bread known as puri, and is often accompanied by side of spicy chickpea curry (chole).

Lets look at how this amazing traditional breakfast treat is made with a step-by-step guide and bring the authentic taste of Halwa Puri into your kitchen.

Ingredients

For Puri:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp oil (for dough)
  • Water, as needed
  • Oil for deep frying

For Halwa:

  • 1 cup semolina (sooji)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
  • 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios)
  • A few saffron strands (optional)
  • Raisins (optional)

For Chole (Optional side dish):

  • 1 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight or canned)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preparing the Puri

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and oil. Mix well.
  2. Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, soft dough. The consistency should be a bit firmer than regular chapati dough. Cover and set it aside for 30 minutes.
  3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
  4. Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
  5. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide the rolled dough into the oil. The puri should puff up. Fry until golden brown on both sides.
  6. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil, path down with another towel to remove as much oil as possible. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Step 2: Making the Halwa

  1. Heat ghee in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the ghee melts, add semolina (sooji) and roast, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown and aromatic. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  2. In another pot, heat 4 cups of water with sugar, saffron (if using), and cardamom powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Slowly pour the sugar-water mixture into the roasted semolina while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  4. Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring until the semolina absorbs all the water and thickens into a pudding-like consistency.
  5. Add chopped nuts and raisins. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat and let the halwa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Making the Chickpea Curry (Optional)

  1. In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they start to sizzle, add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  3. Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well.
  4. Add boiled chickpeas (or canned chickpeas) and a little water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavours combine.
  5. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Halwa, puri, and chickpea curry (chole) combined together create a balanced meal. Serve the crispy puris with a spoonful of halwa and a side of spicy chickpea curry. You can also add some pickle and yogurt on the side for extra flavour.

Why is Halwa Puri so Special?

Halwa Puri is not just a breakfast but an experience. The contrast between the sweet, rich halwa and the savoury, spicy chole, all scooped up with a crispy puri, makes this dish irresistible. The simplicity of the ingredients masks the depth of flavour, and it’s a meal that instantly brings warmth and comfort to those who enjoy it.

Whether you are making this at home while hosting a weekend brunch or eating out with friends and family, this iconic dish will bring joy and excitement to your table. Give this recipe a try, and experience the rich cultural flavours of South Asia right in your own home.

Halwa Puri