By Akshara
October 17, 2026
Transform fresh red pumpkin into a luxurious, caramelised sweet treat with this vrat-friendly pumpkin halwa for Navratri 2026. Slow-cooked in pure ghee and milk until tender, the grated pumpkin absorbs aromatic notes of cardamom and saffron while being naturally sweetened with organic jaggery. Garnished with toasted chopped nuts, this vibrant orange dessert offers a unique and comforting sweet finale to your festive meals.
3 cups grated red pumpkin (kaddu)  3 tablespoons pure ghee  1/2 cup full-fat milk or crumbled khoya  1/3 cup organic jaggery powder (adjust to taste)  1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder  A pinch of saffron strands dissolved in 1 tablespoon warm milk  2 tablespoons mixed chopped almonds and cashews
Heat pure ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan and lightly roast the chopped nuts until golden, then remove and set aside.
Add the grated pumpkin to the same pan and sauté over medium heat for ten to twelve minutes until its raw moisture evaporates and it shrinks significantly.
Pour in the milk and saffron-infused milk, stirring continuously until the pumpkin absorbs the liquid and softens completely.
Stir in the organic jaggery powder and cardamom powder, cooking on low heat until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan before garnishing with roasted nuts.