Delicate Kaju Katli with Gulkand Twist
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Kaju Katli, enhanced with aromatic Gulkand. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashew nuts (kaju)
- 1/3 cup milk powder
- For sugar syrup:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tbsp gulkand
- 2 sheets silver work
- 1 sharp knife for cutting
- 2 sheets butter paper
- Belan (rolling pin)
Instructions
- Firstly, take the cashew nuts and blend them in a mixture. Pause for two to three minutes until finely ground.
- Sieve the blended cashew nuts and mix well with milk powder to prepare the Kaju Katli powder.
- In a pan, melt the sugar over medium flame to make a one-string sugar syrup (tar chasni). Switch off the heat and add the prepared cashew powder, mixing well.
- If the syrup is too thick, add a few spoons of water and let it cool for ten minutes.
- Take a butter paper sheet, apply ghee, and ensure the cashew mixture is formed into a smooth dough.
- Cover the dough with another butter paper sheet, spread with a belan, and add 1 teaspoon of gulkand.
- Apply another layer of the cashew mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Decorate with silver work and cut into desired shapes with a sharp knife. Allow it to cool for half an hour before serving on plates.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information may vary based on ingredients used.
Recipe Overview
Moderate
Food processor, heavy-bottomed pan, rolling pin, sharp knife, butter paper, ghee
Ensure cashew nuts are fresh for optimal flavor. Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking during cooking.
The Kaju Katli can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Select high-quality cashew nuts that are whole and without blemishes for the best texture.
Store the cashew nuts in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
If gulkand is unavailable, consider using rose syrup or a similar floral essence for flavor.
1 cup of cashew nuts is approximately 150 grams; 1 tablespoon is about 15 milliliters.
Expert Techniques
To achieve a smooth dough, blend cashew nuts in short bursts to avoid overheating.
Avoid overcooking the sugar syrup, as it may become too thick and affect the texture.
The sugar syrup should form a single thread when ready, indicating it is at the correct consistency.
If a food processor is not available, use a mortar and pestle to finely grind the cashews.
Serving & Presentation
Serve the Kaju Katli on a decorative plate, garnished with edible flowers or chopped pistachios.
Pair with a cup of masala chai or saffron-infused milk for a delightful experience.
Cut into small diamond shapes for bite-sized servings, ideal for sharing.
Perfect for festivals, weddings, or as a thoughtful gift during celebrations.
Nutrition & Health
Each piece contains approximately 80 calories, with healthy fats from cashews.
Cashew nuts are rich in magnesium and antioxidants, promoting heart health.
Contains nuts; ensure no allergies exist before serving. Suitable for vegetarian diets.
Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet to maximize health benefits.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage methods: Store Kaju Katli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing guidelines: For long-term storage, wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating instructions: If desired, let thaw at room temperature and serve, or microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before serving.
- Food safety: Ensure to consume thawed Kaju Katli within 2-3 days for optimal taste and quality.
Variations & Adaptations
- Seasonal versions: Incorporate seasonal fruits like mango or coconut for a unique twist.
- Dietary modifications: Substitute gulkand with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Scaling instructions: Adjust the ingredient quantities proportionately for larger or smaller batches.
- Budget options: Use local nuts or adjust sugar levels to create a more cost-effective version.
Troubleshooting FAQ
- Common problems: If the Kaju Katli is too hard, the sugar syrup may have been overcooked.
- Quick fixes: Reheat the mixture gently with a little water to adjust the consistency.
- Expert solutions: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the precise one-string consistency.
- Time management: Prepare the cashew powder and sugar syrup in advance to streamline the process.
Community & Sharing
- Serving for events: Perfect for festivals and gatherings, Kaju Katli can be a centerpiece treat.
- Cultural notes: Gulkand is traditionally used in Indian sweets, adding floral notes and health benefits.
- Recipe history: Kaju Katli has roots in Indian cuisine, symbolizing celebration and joy.
- Batch cooking: Make larger quantities to share with family and friends or for festive occasions.