Poppy seeds, or Khus Khus, are a nutritious ingredient packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals, making them ideal for winter dishes. Beyond their nutritional benefits, they help protect the skin from dryness during cold weather. While poppy seeds are commonly used in savory dishes, this winter, you can surprise your family with a delicious poppy seed halwa—a dessert that’s both tasty and beneficial.

Nutritional Benefits of Poppy Seeds

According to the USDA, 100 grams of poppy seeds contain:

• Protein: 18 grams

• Dietary fiber: 19.05 grams

• Calcium: 1440 mg

• Iron: 9.76 mg

• Magnesium: 347 mg

• Potassium: 870 mg

• Zinc: 7.9 mg

• Copper: 1.63 mg

• Manganese: 6.71 mg
  They are also rich in vitamins C, E, B complex, and selenium, making them a powerhouse ingredient for health and energy.

Ingredients for Poppy Seed Halwa

• Poppy seeds: ¾ cup (≈100 g)

• Ghee: 70 g

• Sugar: ¾ cup

• Milk: 1 cup (≈250 g)

• Cardamom: 4–5 small pods

• Almonds, pistachios, cashews: 7–8 each

How to Prepare the Halwa

1. Soak the seeds: Clean and rinse poppy seeds, then soak for 4–5 hours.

2. Prepare nuts and cardamom: Chop almonds, pistachios, and cashews, then roast them in desi ghee. Peel and crush cardamom seeds into a coarse or fine powder.

3. Grind poppy seeds: Drain soaked seeds and grind in a mixer, adding a little milk if needed.

4. Cook seeds: Heat half the ghee in a pan, fry the ground poppy seeds on low flame until golden and aromatic. Add more ghee if the mixture seems dry. Transfer to a bowl.

5. Combine ingredients: In the same pan, add remaining milk and sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add roasted poppy seed mixture and cook until thickened.

6. Finish and garnish: Add cardamom powder, along with almonds, cashews, and pistachios. Serve hot or refrigerate for 4–5 days.

This Khuskhus ka Halwa is an excellent alternative to carrot or moong dal halwa, offering rich flavor and health benefits in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or festive winter meals!