Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup khoya (dried milk)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Oil for deep frying
Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan for frying
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, ghee, and cardamom powder. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the khoya and sugar to the mixture and mix well.
3. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead until it forms a smooth dough.
4. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into thin circles.
6. Cut the circles into small diamond shapes using a knife or a pastry cutter.
7. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan.
8. Fry the diamond-shaped pieces until they turn golden brown.
9. Remove the fried pieces from the oil and drain them on a paper towel.
10. Let the fried pieces cool down to room temperature.
11. Store the khaja in an airtight container.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature for frying: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes approximately 20-25 pieces
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 150
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Khoya can be substituted with ricotta cheese or milk powder.
- Ghee can be substituted with butter or vegetable oil.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts such as almonds, pistachios, or cashews to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar or cinnamon on top of the khaja for added sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the khaja to ensure they cook evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to prevent the khaja from sticking together.
- Store the khaja in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
Storage instructions:
Store the khaja in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
Khaja can be reheated in a microwave or oven for a few seconds before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the khaja on a platter and sprinkle powdered sugar or cinnamon on top for added presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped nuts or fresh fruit such as strawberries or raspberries.
Pairings:
Khaja can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet treat.
Suggested side dishes:
Khaja can be served as a dessert on its own and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add more water gradually until it forms a smooth dough.
- If the khaja turns out too hard, reduce the cooking time or temperature.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the khaja from absorbing too much oil.
- Store the khaja in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Khaja is a popular sweet snack in India and is often served during festivals and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
Khaja has a sweet and nutty flavor with a crispy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve khaja as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet snack with tea or coffee.
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Region: Indian