Suji Halwa

Suji halwa is a traditional sweet porridge widely consumed across the Indian subcontinent, prepared by roasting semolina, locally known as suji. The coarse wheat grains are fried in ghee to create a nutty base before being sweetened.

In practice, there is no culinary difference between Suji Halwa and Sheera; they are simply regional names for the same semolina-based sweet pudding. The term 'sheera' is more commonly used in Maharashtra and Gujarat, while 'halwa' is used across North India.

Suji halwa is a characteristic dish served during Hindu pujas and as *karah prasad* in Sikh gurdwaras. It is also heavily associated with festivals, weddings, and celebrations marking the purchase of a new home or vehicle.

The roasted semolina is cooked with a sugar syrup, water, or milk until it achieves a thick, pudding-like consistency. It is characteristically garnished with chopped cashews, almonds, raisins, and fragrant cardamom powder.