Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Saffron Milk Mixture

In a pan, add milk, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add saffron if using and keep the mixture hot over low heat.

Step 2: Roast the Sooji in Ghee

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee. Add the sooji and roast it over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the sooji is evenly roasted and aromatic.

Step 3: Add the Hot Liquid to the Roasted Sooji

Carefully pour the hot milk-water-sugar mixture into the roasted sooji while stirring continuously. Add the liquid gradually and keep stirring to prevent lumps. Cook until the sooji absorbs the liquid and the halwa reaches a soft, smooth consistency.

Step 4: Add Cardamom, Nuts and Raisins

Add cardamom powder, chopped almonds, cashews, pistachios, and raisins. Mix well and cook briefly so the nuts, raisins, and spices are evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Turn off the heat and let the halwa rest for a few minutes so the flavors come together. Serve warm.

Sooji Halwa for Ashtami

Sooji Halwa is a classic Indian dessert made with roasted semolina, ghee, sugar and cardamom. It is also commonly prepared as part of Ashtami or Kanya Pujan prasad in many North Indian households, where it is served alongside sookha kala chana and poori. This easy Sooji Halwa recipe takes about 25 minutes and makes 4 servings. For Sharad Navratri 2026, this traditional halwa is a simple option for families preparing Kanya Pujan or Ashtami bhog. Kanya Pujan traditions can vary by family and region, including whether the ritual is observed on Ashtami or Navami.

How to Serve Sooji Halwa for Kanya Pujan

For Kanya Pujan or Ashtami bhog, serve freshly prepared sooji halwa with sookha kala chana and poori. This combination is commonly prepared as the traditional Kanjak meal in many North Indian households.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sooji halwa made for Ashtami bhog?

Yes. Sooji halwa is commonly included in Ashtami or Kanya Pujan prasad and is often served with sookha kala chana and poori.s

How do you make soft sooji halwa?

Roast the sooji properly in ghee, keep the milk-water-sugar mixture hot, and add it gradually to the roasted sooji while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Is sooji halwa a Navratri fasting food?

Sooji is generally not considered a standard fasting ingredient. This recipe is better positioned as an Ashtami or Kanya Pujan prasad recipe, rather than as a food for a strict Navratri fast.

What is served with sooji halwa for Kanya Pujan?

Sookha kala chana and poori are commonly served with sooji halwa as part of the traditional Kanya Pujan meal.