Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup myrobalan (haritaki) powder
- 1 cup ghee
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
Special equipment needed:
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt ghee over medium heat.
2. Add myrobalan powder and stir continuously for 10-12 minutes until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma.
3. In another pan, add sugar and water and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
4. Add the sugar syrup to the myrobalan mixture and stir continuously until it thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
5. Add chopped nuts and cardamom powder and mix well.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
7. Grease a plate with ghee and pour the halwa mixture onto it.
8. Flatten the surface with a spatula and let it cool completely.
9. Cut into desired shapes and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4-6 people
Nutritional information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Myrobalan powder can be substituted with semolina or cornmeal.
- Ghee can be substituted with clarified butter or coconut oil.
- Sugar can be substituted with jaggery or honey.
- Chopped nuts can be substituted with raisins or dried cranberries.
Variations:
- Add saffron strands for a more aromatic flavor.
- Add rose water or orange blossom water for a floral flavor.
- Add grated coconut for a more tropical flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Stir continuously to avoid burning the mixture.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent sticking.
- Add the sugar syrup gradually to avoid lumps.
- Use a greased spatula to flatten the halwa mixture onto the plate.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a pan over low heat until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a plate with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a dusting of cardamom powder.
Garnishes:
Chopped nuts, cardamom powder, saffron strands, rose petals.
Pairings:
Masala chai, coffee, or milk.
Suggested side dishes:
Papad, samosas, or pakoras.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more ghee or water.
- If the mixture is too wet, cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Use fresh ingredients.
- Wash hands and utensils thoroughly before cooking.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Myrobalan or haritaki is a fruit that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is believed to have numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion and improving skin health.
Flavor profiles:
Nutty, sweet, and aromatic.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or a sweet snack.
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Region: Indian