Cashew Barfi

Cashew Barfi Recipe from Oman | Ingredients: Cashew, Sugar, Milk Powder

Region / culture: Oman | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 7 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Cashew Barfi is a popular Indian sweet treat made with cashew nuts, sugar, and condensed milk. It is a rich and creamy dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence.

History

Cashew Barfi has been a traditional Indian sweet for many years, often served during festivals and celebrations. The combination of cashew nuts and sugar creates a deliciously sweet and nutty flavor that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1 cup (100 g) broken cashew nuts
0.5 cup (50 g) sugar
0.25 tsp tinned milk powder or condensed milk

How to prepare

Soak the cashew nuts in warm water for approximately 30 minutes and rinse them 2 to 3 times.
Drain all the water and blend the cashew nuts until they form a smooth paste.
Set the cashew paste aside.
In 0.5 cup of water, dissolve the sugar to create a syrup with a consistency of one string.
Add the cashew paste to the syrup and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to leave the sides of the pan (around 5 to 7 minutes).
Transfer the mixture to a plate and let it cool.
Cut the mixture into diamond-shaped pieces.
Store the pieces in the refrigerator.

Variations

Add cardamom powder or saffron for extra flavor.
Use different nuts such as almonds or pistachios for a variation.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the cashew nuts before blending to ensure a smooth paste.

- Stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent burning.

- Cut the barfi into diamond-shaped pieces for a traditional presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Cashew Barfi can be served as a dessert after a traditional Indian meal or as a sweet snack with tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Soak the cashew nuts before blending for a smooth paste.

- Cook the mixture until it starts to leave the sides of the pan for the right consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for sugar.

- Use almond or coconut milk as a substitute for condensed milk.

Make Ahead Tips

Cashew Barfi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cashew Barfi on a decorative plate garnished with silver leaf or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cashew Barfi pairs well with a cup of masala chai or a glass of sweet lassi.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Cashew Barfi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cashew Barfi contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cashew Barfi contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cashew Barfi contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cashew Barfi contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cashew nuts are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, copper, and vitamin K.

Alergens

Cashew Barfi contains nuts and dairy in the form of condensed milk, so it may not be suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.

Summary

Cashew Barfi is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Cashew Barfi is a delicious and indulgent Indian sweet treat made with cashew nuts, sugar, and condensed milk. It is a rich and creamy dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence. Enjoy in moderation for a decadent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. The sweet aroma of cashew nuts roasting in ghee filled the air, while the sound of sugar caramelizing in the pan created a symphony of flavors that I had never experienced before. It was a magical moment that I will never forget.

I had always been a food enthusiast, constantly on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try out in my kitchen. So when my dear friend Mrs. Patel shared her family recipe for Cashew Barfi with me, I was beyond thrilled. Mrs. Patel was known for her culinary skills and her Cashew Barfi was legendary in our community.

As she shared the recipe with me, I listened intently, taking mental notes of every step and ingredient. The process seemed simple enough – roast the cashew nuts, caramelize the sugar, mix everything together, and let it set in a tray to cool. But I knew that the magic lay in the details, the precise measurements, and the love and care that went into making this traditional Indian sweet.

I remember the first time I attempted to make Cashew Barfi at home. I gathered all the ingredients – cashew nuts, sugar, ghee, and a pinch of cardamom powder for that extra touch of flavor. As I roasted the cashew nuts in ghee, I could already feel the anticipation building up inside me. The rich, nutty aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, I caramelized the sugar until it turned a golden brown color, careful not to let it burn. I then added the roasted cashew nuts to the mixture, stirring it gently until everything was well combined. The kitchen was filled with the heavenly scent of roasted nuts and caramelized sugar, creating an ambiance that was both comforting and inviting.

I poured the mixture into a greased tray, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer. I sprinkled some chopped pistachios on top for a pop of color and flavor, before placing the tray in the refrigerator to set. The waiting was the hardest part – watching the Cashew Barfi slowly firm up, knowing that soon I would be able to indulge in its rich, decadent goodness.

As I finally cut into the set Cashew Barfi, the knife glided smoothly through the soft, fudgy texture, releasing a burst of nutty aroma that filled the room. I took a small bite, savoring the rich, buttery flavor of the cashew nuts and the sweetness of the caramelized sugar. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before – a perfect balance of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds.

I shared the Cashew Barfi with my family and friends, who marveled at its rich, decadent taste. They couldn't believe that I had made it myself, and insisted on knowing the secret behind my newfound culinary skills. I simply smiled and told them that it was all thanks to Mrs. Patel and her family recipe, passed down through generations.

Since that day, Cashew Barfi has become a staple in my kitchen, a sweet treat that I love to make for special occasions and festive celebrations. Every time I prepare it, I am transported back to that magical moment when I first saw the recipe, and I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, there is something comforting and timeless about traditional recipes like Cashew Barfi. They connect us to our roots, to our heritage, and to the people who came before us. They remind us of the love and care that went into creating these dishes, and the memories that they hold.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try out, I urge you to seek out traditional dishes like Cashew Barfi. Let the rich flavors and aromas transport you to a different time and place, and savor every bite with gratitude and appreciation for the culinary treasures that have been passed down through generations.