Panjiri is a traditional Indian sweet treat made with whole wheat flour, ghee, and sugar. It's often prepared during festivals and as a nutritious snack. A step-by-step guide on how to make panjiri:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dry ginger powder (saunth)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
- Edible gum (optional)
- Desiccated coconut (optional)
- Poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Roasting Wheat Flour:
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai on low heat. Add the whole wheat flour and dry roast it. Keep stirring continuously to avoid burning. Roast until the flour turns aromatic and changes color to a light golden brown. This may take about 10-12 minutes. Be patient and ensure even roasting.
2. Roasting Nuts:
- In the same pan, add a tablespoon of ghee and roast the chopped nuts until they turn golden. Add the raisins and roast them until they puff up. Remove the nuts and raisins from the pan and set them aside.
3. Roasting Edible Gum (Optional):
- If you're using edible gum, add it to the remaining ghee in the pan and roast it until it puffs up. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.
4. Mixing Ingredients:
- In the same pan, add the remaining ghee and return the roasted wheat flour to the pan. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
5. Adding Sugar and Spices:
- Add the powdered sugar, cardamom powder, dry ginger powder, and black pepper powder to the mixture. Mix well and continue to cook for a few more minutes.
6. Combining Nuts and Gum:
- Add the roasted nuts, raisins, and edible gum (if using) to the mixture. You can also add desiccated coconut and poppy seeds if desired.
7. Final Roasting:
- Continue to cook the mixture on low heat until everything is well combined and it reaches your desired level of doneness. This can take about 5-10 more minutes.
8. Cooling and Storing:
- Remove the panjiri from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
9. Serving:
- Once cooled, store the panjiri in an airtight container. It can be served as a sweet snack or as a prasad during religious ceremonies.
Panjiri is a nutritious and energy-packed sweet that's perfect for festivals, especially during the winter months. It's also known for its health benefits, making it a popular choice for new mothers and as a winter warmer. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this traditional Indian treat.