Carrot Barfi
Tibetan Carrot Barfi Recipe with Milk, Butter, and Spices
Introduction
Carrot Barfi is a traditional Indian sweet dish made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and nuts. It is a delicious and colorful dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat.
History
Carrot Barfi has its origins in India, where it is a popular dessert enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. The dish is believed to have been created centuries ago and has since become a beloved sweet treat in Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 2 cups half-and-half milk
- 0.5 cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 0.5 cup thinly slivered almonds
- 0.5 cup golden raisins
- 0.5 cup cashew nuts
- A dash of red coloring
How to prepare
- In a cooking pan, combine grated carrots and milk.
- Bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for an hour, until the carrots have softened.
- Add butter, sugar, cardamom, almonds, raisins, and cashews; mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle a dash of red coloring and simmer the mixture, stirring continuously, for another 15–20 minutes until the carrot mixture has thickened.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a well-buttered container; spread into a 2-inch thick layer.
- Chill overnight in the refrigerator.
- Cut into 2-inch cubes.
- Serve chilled, topped with sliced almonds.
Variations
- Add a pinch of saffron for a fragrant flavor.
- Substitute almonds with pistachios or cashews for a different nutty taste.
- Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to grate the carrots finely to ensure a smooth texture in the barfi.
- Stir the mixture continuously while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference.
- Chill the barfi overnight for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Carrot Barfi can be served as a dessert on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.
Cooking Techniques
Simmer the carrot mixture over low heat to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning or sticking to the pan.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use ghee instead of butter for a richer flavor.
- Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
Make Ahead Tips
Carrot Barfi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cut into cubes and store in an airtight container.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Carrot Barfi on a decorative platter garnished with sliced almonds and a sprinkle of edible rose petals for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Carrot Barfi with a cup of masala chai or a glass of sweet lassi for a traditional Indian dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Carrot Barfi in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy chilled.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Carrot Barfi contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Carrot Barfi is a high-carbohydrate dessert due to the sugar and milk used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The butter and nuts in Carrot Barfi contribute to its fat content. Each serving contains around 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Nuts are a good source of protein in Carrot Barfi, with each serving containing about 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Carrots are rich in vitamin A and other essential nutrients. Carrot Barfi provides a good amount of vitamin A and other minerals like calcium and iron.
Alergens
Carrot Barfi contains dairy (milk) and nuts, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Carrot Barfi is a sweet and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a good amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Summary
Carrot Barfi is a delightful Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and nuts. It is a sweet and colorful treat that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. I had always loved trying new dishes and expanding my culinary skills, so when my dear friend Mala shared her recipe for Carrot Barfi with me, I couldn't wait to give it a try.
Mala and I had been friends for many years, bonding over our shared love for cooking and experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. She was a fantastic cook, always coming up with unique and delicious recipes that never failed to impress. So when she told me about her Carrot Barfi, I knew it was going to be something special.
The recipe was surprisingly simple, with just a few basic ingredients that I already had in my pantry. Grated carrots, milk, sugar, ghee, and a handful of nuts and spices were all that was needed to create this delectable sweet treat. Mala explained the process to me in detail, emphasizing the importance of cooking the carrots slowly in the milk until they were soft and sweet, and adding just the right amount of sugar and ghee to give the barfi its rich and creamy texture.
As I followed Mala's instructions and watched the ingredients come together in the pot, I couldn't help but marvel at the transformation taking place before my eyes. The grated carrots softened and caramelized, their natural sweetness intensifying as they absorbed the milk and sugar. The ghee added a luxurious richness to the mixture, while the nuts and spices brought a depth of flavor that was truly irresistible.
When the Carrot Barfi was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste it. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy that made my mouth water in anticipation. I carefully cut a small piece of the barfi and took a bite, savoring the creamy texture and complex flavors that danced on my tongue.
It was even better than I had imagined. The carrots were tender and sweet, balanced perfectly by the richness of the ghee and the warmth of the spices. The nuts added a satisfying crunch, while the subtle hint of cardamom and saffron elevated the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
I knew then and there that this Carrot Barfi recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dessert for family gatherings and special occasions. I made sure to jot down every detail of Mala's instructions, knowing that this was a recipe worth preserving and passing down to future generations.
Over the years, I have made Carrot Barfi countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something truly special in the kitchen.
And every time I make it, I think of Mala and the day she shared her recipe with me, sparking a love for Carrot Barfi that will never fade. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food and the joy of sharing it with others.
So the next time you're in the mood for something sweet and indulgent, why not give Carrot Barfi a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to take your time, savor each step of the process, and most importantly, enjoy every bite of this delicious and comforting dessert.