Halwa Puri
Golden deep-fried bread served with sweet semolina halwa and spiced chickpeas — Sunday breakfast.
The Story
Halwa Puri is a beloved Pakistani breakfast staple, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. The warm, flaky puris paired with the rich, sweet halwa create a comforting start to the day, evoking memories of home and cultural heritage.
Nutrition per Serving
450
Calories
8g
Protein
60g
Carbs
20g
Fat
3g
Fiber
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and semolina. Add a pinch of salt and mix well. This mixture forms the base for your puris, which should have a coarse texture.
- 2
Gradually add water to the flour mixture, little by little, while kneading to form a soft, pliable dough. The dough should not be too sticky; it should be smooth and elastic after about 5-7 minutes of kneading.
- 3
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period helps in gluten formation, making the puris easier to roll out and fry.
- 4
Meanwhile, begin making the halwa by heating ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is melted and hot, add semolina and stir continuously for about 5-7 minutes until it turns a light golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma.
- 5
Add sugar to the roasted semolina, followed by water and milk. Stir well to combine, and reduce the heat to low. Cook this mixture while stirring constantly for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
- 6
In the last few minutes of cooking the halwa, add cardamom powder, chopped nuts, and raisins. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors. The halwa should have a smooth consistency and a rich, sweet aroma.
- 7
While the halwa cooks, take the rested dough and divide it into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter, dusting with flour to prevent sticking.
- 8
Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat for frying the puris. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- 9
Fry each rolled puri one at a time until they puff up and turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- 10
Once all puris are fried, serve them hot alongside the sweet halwa. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve green chilies on the side for an authentic touch.
- 11
Enjoy your delicious Halwa Puri breakfast with family and friends, relishing the combination of flavors and textures!
Pro Tips
- •
Ensure the ghee is hot enough before adding the onions for a deeper flavor.
- •
Use fresh herbs to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish.
- •
Adjust the spice mix according to your heat preference for a personalized kick.
- •
Serve immediately for the best texture; puris are best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
Variations
- →
Substitute ghee with olive oil for a lighter version.
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Add saffron to the halwa for a luxurious regional twist.
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Use whole wheat flour for puris to make them healthier.