I have eaten this halwa(sheera) only in Maharashtra and it is one of my absolute favourites. The recipe is courtesy http://www.madhurasrecipe.com/desserts/Pineapple-Sheera . I have only modified the quantity for a larger portion. I used fresh pineapple , if using canned pineapple you will need to reduce the sugar . For the pineapple puree just blend the chopped pineapple in a blender to get a smooth puree( as per the recipe the inner core part can be used for the puree) The sooji should be roasted before using to avoid a sticky sheera, roasted sheera is available readymade these days. Try this for a light and sweet finish to any meal.
Ingerdients (serves 6-8)
1 cup chopped pineapple pieces
1 cup pineapple puree
2 cups sugar
2 cups roasted sooji
4 cups water
Saffron threads
1/2 teaspoon elaichi powder
10 tablespoons ghee
1. In a microwave bowl, mix the pineapple pieces with the puree and the sugar and microwave on high for three minutes. Stir the mixture after every minute
2. In a thick bottomed kadhai, heat the ghee on a slow flame. When hot, add the sooji and roast till it is light brown in colour and you can smell the roasted sooji (about 7-8 minutes) . This should be done over a slow flame.
3. At the same time bring the water to a boil in another pan with the saffron and elaichi powder.
4. When the sooji is roasted, add the hot water (carefully as it will splutter) along with the pineapple and sugar mixture. Mix everything well together
5. Cover with a lid till the water is absorbed and leave for another 3-4 minutes stirring once or twice in between. The mixture will fluff up and the ghee will come on the sides when it is ready
6. Turn of the gas and serve hot, garnished with almond slivers and raisins
