In India we have an age old tradition of offering mithai ( Indian sweets) and water on arrival to any visitor who comes home. This courtesy is extended not just to relatives and friends but even to the casual visitor or even someone who has come for some work. It is not a big deal but if you think about it... this simple gesture not only extends a warm welcome to the visitor but also provides instant sustenance. The sweets can be home made, bought from some popular sweet shop or the branded options now available.
Recently I visited Niru Mausi, (my maternal aunt) in Lucknow and was served Gajar Ki Barfi which she had made herself. It was so amazingly delicious that I couldn't resist asking Mausi for the recipe. Made with very few ingredients this recipe is easy and takes little time. The grated carrots are lightly fried to soften and then cooked with sugar and milk powder till firm enough to set. I have now tried it out several times and it never ceases to delight. If you are in the mood for a traditional Indian sweet this is a nice recipe to try.
Ingredients:
3 cups carrot, grated
1 cup milk powder
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp ghee ( clarified butter)
1 tsp cardamom powder
1 tbsp almond slivers
1 tbsp each raisins and chopped cashew nuts ( optional)
Method: Wash carrots well, peel and grate finely.
In a heavy bottom pan heat ghee and add the grated carrot. Saute on a low flame until carrot softens, the water from carrots dries up and carrot gets lightly fried. Add the milk powder and mix well. Also add the sugar and cardamom powder. Keep stirring. The sugar will melt and the resultant liquid will help bring everything together. Stir till the mixture leaves sides and forms a ball in the centre of the pan. Take out and spread on a greased tray. Spread the almond slivers on top and press down lightly. Allow to cool completely. Can also place in the refrigerator to set. Cut into squares when set.
Before removing from the flame I added a tbsp each of chopped cashew and raisins. This is optional however, and you can avoid it if you want.
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