Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups chhena (cottage cheese)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup semolina (suji)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped dates
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Deep frying pan
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine chhena, all-purpose flour, semolina, baking powder, and cardamom powder. Mix well to form a smooth dough.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into round 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 place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
6. In a separate pan, heat water and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
7. Add chopped dates and pistachios to the sugar syrup and mix well.
8. Dip the fried chhena balls into the sugar syrup and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.
9. Garnish with chopped pistachios and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chhena can be substituted with ricotta cheese.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
- Semolina can be substituted with cornmeal.
Variations:
- Instead of dates and pistachios, you can use any other dried fruit and nut combination.
- You can also add saffron to the sugar syrup for a unique flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chhena balls.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan.
- Let the chhena balls cool down before dipping them into the sugar syrup.
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 warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the chhena jhili on a platter with chopped pistachios sprinkled on top.
Garnishes:
Chopped pistachios
Pairings:
Chhena jhili can be served as a dessert after a meal or as a snack with tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
None
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chhena balls are breaking apart while frying, add more all-purpose flour to the dough.
- If the sugar syrup is too thick, add more water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the oil is not too hot to avoid splattering.
Food history:
Chhena jhili is a popular dessert in the eastern part of India, especially in the state of Odisha.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, nutty, and aromatic
Serving suggestions:
Serve the chhena jhili with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
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Region: Indian