Thought for Today
Kozhikode Halwa Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wheat flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands
- 1 tablespoon chopped cashew nuts
- 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
- 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
- Food color (orange or red), optional
Instructions:
- Prepare Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine wheat flour with water to form a smooth dough. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, add sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until you get a thick syrup consistency. Set aside.
- Cook Dough:
- Heat ghee in a separate heavy-bottomed pan over low heat. Add the prepared dough and roast it in ghee, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add Sugar Syrup:
- Once the dough is lightly golden, slowly add the prepared sugar syrup, stirring continuously to combine. The mixture will start to thicken.
- Add Flavorings:
- Add cardamom powder and saffron strands to the mixture and mix well.
- Add Nuts and Color (Optional):
- Add chopped cashew nuts, almonds, pistachios, and food color (if using) to the mixture. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Continue Cooking:
- Keep stirring the mixture continuously over low heat until it thickens further and starts to leave the sides of the pan. This may take about 20-25 minutes.
- Transfer to Plate:
- Once the mixture reaches a halwa-like consistency, turn off the heat. Transfer the hot halwa mixture to a greased plate or tray and spread it evenly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Kozhikode Halwa to cool down completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cut into desired shapes using a sharp knife. Serve as a sweet treat or dessert.