Halwa is one of the most loved desserts in India, which is served during festivals, celebrations or just as a comforting treat at home if you’re craving for something sweet. But if you’ve ever wondered what halwa is called in English, you’re not alone.
What is Halwa?
Halwa is an opulent dessert made with a combination of flour, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and nuts. Halwa may be flavored with cardamom, saffron, or rosewater and is dense rich in consistency. Halwa is normally cooked gradually with low heat to enhance all the flavors.
In English, halwa is occasionally referred to as “Sweet Pudding” or “Indian Pudding”, although the texture and ingredients are slightly different from those of Western puddings. Referring to it as sweet pudding helps readers who are not Indian understand that it is a sweet dish, often dense and sweet.
Types of Halwa
Halwa is made in many different forms, and each has a different taste and ingredients. Some of the popular ones are:
- Suji Halwa (Semolina Pudding): Made with semolina, sugar, and ghee. Usually served at festivals.
- Gajar Halwa (Carrot Pudding): Made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. Very much in demand during winters.
- Moong Dal Halwa: Made with split yellow lentils, ghee, and sugar. Rich and filling.
- Besan Halwa (Gram Flour Pudding): Made from roasted gram flour, ghee, and sugar. Loved due to its nutty flavor.
- Lauki Halwa (Bottle Gourd Pudding): A healthier version prepared with bottle gourd and milk.
- Regardless of the variety, the concept is basically the same: a rich, sweet, and decadent dessert.
Halwa Ingredients Explained in English
In English, Halwa also refers to acknowledging the translated ingredients:
- Ghee = Clarified Butter
- Suji = Semolina
- Besan = Gram Flour
- Gud = Jaggery (sometimes sugar is used)
- Elaichi = Cardamom
- Kaju/Pista = Cashews / Pistachios
Knowing these translations gives it a simpler means for a foreigner who does not know about Indian food to prepare or have halwa prepared elsewhere internationally.
How to Describe Halwa in English
If you’re explaining halwa to someone who doesn’t know Indian food, you can say: Halwa is a traditional Indian sweet pudding made with flour or suji, sugar, ghee and nuts if you want to you can put saffron as well. Halwa is served warm during festival and other celebrations. This simple description helps English speakers understand its taste, texture, and cultural importance.
Why Halwa is Popular
Halwa is so popular due to the ease of preparation, its adaptability and its comforting nature. It can be served either hot or cold, garnished with nuts or raisins, and adapted to local tastes. Its presence during festivals, religious events, and weddings makes it a favorite dessert in India.
ALSO READ: China’s Ghost Cities: Why Do These Modern Urban Marvels Stand Empty?
