More Halwa recipes for you to try
1. Habshi Halwa
2. Almond, Coconut and Pineapple Halwa
4. Coconut halwa
6. Makhandi Halwa
7. Badam Halwa
📖 Recipe
Bombay Ice Halwa
Bombay Ice, also known as Mahim Halwa, is a popular sweet delicacy from Maharashtra. This glossy, chewy confection is flavoured with cardamom and nuts, while the golden halwa variation is infused with saffron and a hint of yellow food colouring.
Equipment
- Greaseproof paper or butter paper
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain flour maida
- ½ cup full-fat milk cold
- ½ cup ghee
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ cup almonds and pistachios finely slivered
- ½ teaspoon cardamom seeds lightly crushed
For Golden Halwa
- 10 to 12 saffron threads
- pinch yellow food colouring
Instructions
- Line a flat work surface with greaseproof paper or butter paper. Have a rolling pin ready.
- Heat the ghee in a non-stick pan over low heat until just melted. Remove from the heat.
- Add the plain flour, sugar, and milk. If making Golden Halwa, add the yellow food colouring at this stage. Mix well until smooth.
- Return the pan to medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and comes together into a glossy, thick mass.
- Remove from the heat and immediately transfer the mixture onto the prepared greaseproof paper.
- Place another sheet of greaseproof paper on top and quickly roll the mixture into an even layer.
- Remove the top sheet and sprinkle evenly with the almond and pistachio slivers, crushed cardamom seeds, and saffron threads if making Golden Halwa.
- Replace the top sheet and gently roll again to press the nuts and spices into the surface.
- Roll to approximately 2 to 3 millimetres thick.
- Remove the top sheet and allow the halwa to cool for a few minutes.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut into squares or diamonds, but leave the pieces in place.
- Allow the halwa to cool completely and set for 4 to 5 hours, or longer in warm climates.
- Once set, the halwa should have a shiny surface and be firm enough to lift easily.
- Carefully separate the pieces and store them in an airtight container, placing greaseproof paper between the layers.
Notes
- Accurate measurements are essential for achieving the correct texture.
- Different brands of flour can produce slightly different results. Use a good-quality plain flour for the best consistency.
- Homemade ghee provides the richest flavour, but shop-bought ghee also works well.
- Setting time will vary depending on room temperature and humidity.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
Calories: 85kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 24mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 12IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 0.2mg
PLEASE NOTE: Nutritional values are estimated by a computer and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. For personalised dietary advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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Hayley Dhanecha says
This looks so impressive but is actually just a few simple ingredients cooked together until glossy and stretchy then poured out thin and left to set, and the way it turns into those beautiful shiny sheets topped with nuts, cardamom seeds and saffron threads makes it one of the most magical sweets I have ever made.
Colette (Coco) says
Such beautiful presentation! I love the heart-shaped ones. Brilliant use of cookie cutters. It's not easy making ice halwa look good and you've excelled!
Unknown says
I absolutely love Indian sweets, so so tasty. I used to live in Derby, and would take a long walk on occasion, just to visit my favourite Indian sweet shop. I would select some, which would be put in a lovely box. A treasured box of deliciousness. Your recipe is wonderful, and I would be delighted to try them myself. I love your story of Valentines, how sweet.
Home & Plate says
This is such a thoughtful idea as a gift instead of chocolate. It has pistachios and almonds which add to the complex flavor of this tasty treat.
Unknown says
Oh my! I love halwa! I always have to buy it so I'm so excited for this recipe so that I can finally make it at home! There's something absolutely decadent and delish about this that I can't stop eating! haha 🙂
veenaazmanov says
One of my absolute favorite Mithai from India. I LOVE Bombay Halva. Boy do I have some pleasant memories as a kid. This looks so easy.
Michelle says
Those are beautiful. What an interesting dessert and gift!