India > Odia > Desserts

Chhena Jhili with Coconut and Jaggery Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chhena (cottage cheese)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup semolina
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup grated coconut
- 1/4 cup jaggery
- Oil for frying

Special Equipment Needed:
- Deep frying pan
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Grater

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chhena, all-purpose flour, semolina, baking powder, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth dough.

2. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into small balls.

3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.

4. Once the oil is hot, gently drop the chhena balls into the oil and fry until golden brown.

5. Remove the fried chhena balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

6. In a separate pan, add grated coconut and jaggery. Cook on low heat until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens.

7. Add the fried chhena balls to the coconut and jaggery mixture and toss well to coat.

8. Serve hot.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for frying
- Low heat for cooking the coconut and jaggery mixture
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 6g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of chhena, you can use ricotta cheese.
- Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour.
- Instead of semolina, you can use cornmeal.

Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios to the coconut and jaggery mixture for added crunch.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chhena balls to ensure they cook evenly.
- Do not overmix the dough as it can make the chhena balls tough.

Storage Instructions:
- Chhena jhili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, microwave the chhena jhili for 30 seconds or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the chhena jhili on a plate with the coconut and jaggery mixture drizzled on top.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped nuts or fresh mint leaves.

Pairings:
- Chhena jhili pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like sliced mangoes or papayas.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the chhena balls are breaking apart while frying, add more flour to the dough to make it firmer.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the oil is not too hot to avoid splattering and burns.

Food History:
- Chhena jhili is a popular dessert in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.

Flavor Profiles:
- Chhena jhili has a sweet and nutty flavor with a soft and chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot for best results.

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Region: Indian

Taste: Sweet, Coconutty, Rich, Creamy