Sugar-free Dry Dates Halwa

Dry dates are not a common ingredient I have at home and not favoured by many. The other day I had purchased some dry dates to use in this recipe, so I decided to use some of the remaining lot to make a sugar-free dessert. It turned out to be quite a surprise winner and what is more, it was not too time consuming too and I easily managed to dish it up, in spite of being short of time, as I was rushing to get iftar ready for my family with just an hour at hand, being a very busy day at work.

I did add some condensed milk, as I had some handy but I realized it can easily be made without that too, making the dish completely sugar-free.

Ingredients

35-40 dry dates,

1 tablespoon of condensed milk (optional),

1 cup of milk,

2 tablespoons of ghee,

½ cup of desiccated coconut,

1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped dry fruits,

¼ teaspoon powdered green cardamom seeds

Method  

Wash the dry dates well and soak it in water for about 3-4 hours till they are completely softened. Once they are softened drain the water completely and then deseed them. Grind the deseeded dates coarsely.

Heat ghee in a thick-bottomed pan and add the coarsely ground dates. Keep stirring it

not stick to the bottom of the pan. At this stage add the desiccated coconut and mix well. Saute this for about 2-3 minutes more. Now add the condensed milk and milk and cook it till it dries up completely and starts leaving the sides of the pan. Sprinkle the powdered green cardamom powder and half the chopped dry fruits reserving the remaining for garnishing.

This can be served warm or at room temperature.

It is a very healthy wholesome dessert and can be served even to diabetics in moderation as a snack (not with a meal).  

Note:

You can add some khoya too for a richer taste.