Channa Halva

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Photo source: Taraladalal

Photo source: Taraladalal

Besan flour, also known as gram flour, is made from channa dal (deshi channa or bengal gram) a close relative of chickpeas. Its golden colour speaks to its high antoxidant content. Channa has a low glycemic index. This recipe is gluten free, nutritious, and supports breast milk production. It is good for vata, pitta, kapha (occasionally), rakta, sthanya.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups besan flour (available at Indian grocery stores)

  • 1/2 cup ghee (Learn How to Make Ghee)

  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds

  • 3/4 cup chopped pitted dates

  • 1 cup raw cane sugar (turbinado)

  • 1 can coconut milk

  • 2 cups hot water (or as needed)

  • 1 tsp cardamom seeds

Serves up to 12

Directions

  1. Heat ghee in heavy bottomed pan.

  2. Add besan flour and roast until golden brown but not burnt.

  3. Add almonds and dates and fry for a few more minutes.

  4. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer until it thickens into a loose dough.

  5. Serve warm as a breakfast or dessert.

Alakananda Ma M.B., B.S. (Lond.) is an Ayurvedic Doctor (NAMA) and graduate of a top London medical school. She is co-founder of Alandi Ayurveda Clinic and Alandi Ayurveda Gurukula in Boulder Colorado, as well as a spiritual mother, teacher, flower essence maker and storyteller. Alakananda is a well known and highly respected practitioner in the Ayurveda community both nationally and internationally.

Enliven your holistic health! Visit Alakananda Ma in Alandi Ashram’s ayurvedic clinic to support the overall rejuvenation of your body, mind, and spirit. In-person and virtual appointments available. Book now!