Sooji Halwa (Suji Ka Halwa or Sheera)

Sooji Halwa, also known as Suji Ka Halwa or Sheera, is a timeless Indian dessert made with semolina, ghee, sugar, and cardamom. Simple yet deeply comforting, this halwa is commonly prepared as prasad, served during festivals, pujas, special occasions, or enjoyed as a quick homemade dessert.

What makes a perfect sooji halwa is patience—slow roasting of semolina in ghee, correct liquid temperature, and balanced proportions. When done right, the halwa turns soft, aromatic, glossy, and grain-separated, never lumpy or sticky.



Ingredients

  • 1 cup semolina (sooji / rava)

  • 1 cup sugar

  • ¾ cup ghee

  • 2½ cups warm water

  • 1 tsp finely chopped almonds (optional)

  • 1 tsp finely chopped pistachios (optional)

  • ⅛–¼ tsp green cardamom powder


Method

  1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on medium-low flame.

  2. Add ghee and let it melt.

  3. Add sooji (semolina) and roast it in the ghee until it turns golden brown and aromatic (this step is key for flavor). Stir continuously to avoid burning.

  4. Lower the heat, then add sugar and begin mixing.

  5. Add warm water little by little, stirring constantly so no lumps form.

  6. Cook until the semolina absorbs all the liquid and begins to loosen ghee from the sides.

  7. Add cardamom powder, nuts. Mix well.

  8. Once the halwa is glossy, smooth, and cooked through, turn off heat. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.


📌 Tips

  • Roasting the sooji until it’s light golden gives the best aroma and depth of flavor.

  • You can add a little milk along with water for a richer, creamier texture if desired.

  • Garnish with extra nuts or saffron for festive serving.


Sooji Halwa – (15 people)
 Ingredients Sooji (semolina) – 1½ cups 
 Sugar – 1½ cups 
 Ghee – 1 cup 
 Warm water – 3¾ cups 
 Cardamom powder – ¼–½ tsp

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