This is one of my favorite Indian desserts. I usually order it if it’s available when I eat out in Indian restaurants. Every version will be slightly different, and I’ve eaten some to die for, and have also had my fair share of disappointments. There are other more elaborate recipes for cooking this dish, but they involve very, very slow simmering over the stovetop for a long, long time, and can easily end in scorching. I prefer to take some of the guess work and labor intensity out with my “seat o’the pants” cooking style. This microwaved version is a pretty good fast rendition for our hurry-hurry, instant gratification, American lifestyle.

MICROWAVED CARROT HALWA

2 cups grated carrot
1/2 cup powdered milk
1 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
1/4 cup milk (I use regular, but evaporated would be fine, too)
Handful of raisins (optional), and slivered nuts (roasted almonds work well)

Cook the carrot (alone) in the microwave for 8 minutes. Add the powdered milk, sugar, condensed milk and cardamon and microwave 8 additional minutes. Cool in the oven several minutes.

At serving time, add nuts and raisins. Can be served either hot or cold. Refrigerate leftovers.