12 One-Pot Winter Wonders Your Dadi Would Approve Of

11. Moong Dal Halwa — Luxurious Lentil Dessert for Cold Nights

Moong Dal Halwa is a winter indulgence that many grandmothers reserved for special evenings or festivals. The halwa is made by slow-roasting split yellow moong dal in ghee until fragrant, then simmering it with milk and sugar into a dense, rich pudding. Though it requires elbow grease, the one-pot pan method keeps cleanup simple and concentrates flavors beautifully. Cardamom and a few saffron strands lift the aroma, while chopped nuts add texture. The high ghee content makes it a calorie-rich treat ideal for cold weather, when the body welcomes denser foods. Because it stores well, Dadi often made a batch ahead for guests or for hurried mornings when a warm spoonful pairs nicely with the day’s first cup of tea.