Kaju Katli is a popular Indian sweet made from cashew nuts. It's known for its smooth and melt-in-the-mouth texture. A step-by-step guide on how to make Kaju Katli at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cashew nuts (kaju)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few saffron strands (optional)
- Ghee or clarified butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. Grind Cashew Nuts:
- Begin by grinding the cashew nuts into a fine powder. You can use a food processor or blender for this. Make sure not to over-process, as cashews can release their natural oils and become pasty.
2. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, add sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Check Sugar Syrup Consistency:
- Continue to cook the sugar syrup, stirring occasionally. You're looking for a one-string consistency, which means when you take a small amount of syrup between your thumb and forefinger and pull them apart, you should see one string forming.
- If you have a candy thermometer, the temperature should reach about 225°F (110°C).
4. Add Cashew Powder:
- Once the sugar syrup reaches the one-string consistency, reduce the heat to low.
- Add the ground cashew nut powder and cardamom powder to the sugar syrup. Mix well to combine.
5. Cook the Mixture:
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, for about 7-10 minutes. The mixture will thicken and leave the sides of the pan. It should become a soft dough-like consistency.
6. Add Saffron (Optional):
- If you're using saffron strands, crush them and add them to the mixture during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will infuse a lovely color and aroma into the Kaju Katli.
7. Shape the Kaju Katli:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or a clean, dry work surface. Allow it to cool slightly so you can handle it.
8. Knead and Flatten:
- Knead the mixture gently for a minute or two to make it smooth. You can apply a little ghee to your hands to prevent sticking.
- Place a parchment paper or plastic wrap on top of the dough, and use a rolling pin to flatten it into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle or circle.
9. Cut into Diamonds:
- While it's still warm, use a sharp knife to cut the flattened dough into diamond or square-shaped pieces. You can also use a cookie cutter for different shapes.
10. Allow to Cool:
- Let the Kaju Katli cool completely at room temperature. They will firm up as they cool.
11. Serve:
- Once the Kaju Katli are completely cool and set, gently remove them from the parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Store them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Enjoy your homemade Kaju Katli, a delightful Indian sweet that's perfect for festivals and celebrations!