Kashata na Nazi

Kashata na Nazi Recipe from East Africa - Sugar, Coconut Cream, Cinnamon, Salt

Region / culture: East Africa | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Kashata na Nazi is a traditional East African coconut candy that is sweet, creamy, and full of flavor. This delicious treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and is a popular dessert or snack in many East African countries.

History

Kashata na Nazi has its origins in the coastal regions of East Africa, where coconut trees are abundant. The combination of coconut cream and sugar creates a rich and decadent candy that is loved by many in the region. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple at celebrations and gatherings.

Ingredients

2 cups raw sugar
2 cups coconut cream
1 tsp cinnamon
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a medium-sized heavy iron skillet, melt the sugar while stirring constantly.
Once the sugar starts to caramelize, add the coconut cream, cinnamon, and salt.
Beat the mixture for about 30 seconds.
Pour the mixture into a 12 x 9 inches pan that has been lined with waxed paper.
While still hot, cut the mixture into 1.5 inch squares or diamonds.
Allow the kashatas to cool until they are set.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Use brown sugar for a richer caramel flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the sugar constantly while melting to prevent burning.

- Use a heavy iron skillet for even heat distribution.

- Cut the kashatas while they are still hot to ensure they set properly.

- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Kashata na Nazi as a dessert or snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Melting the sugar in a skillet creates a rich caramel flavor.

- Beating the mixture helps to incorporate the coconut cream and spices evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular cream instead of coconut cream for a different flavor.

- Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

Kashata na Nazi can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the kashatas on a platter and garnish with shredded coconut or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Kashata na Nazi with a hot cup of chai tea or a glass of coconut milk for a delicious pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Kashata na Nazi in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kashata na Nazi contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Kashata na Nazi contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Kashata na Nazi contains approximately 10g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Kashata na Nazi contains approximately 1g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Kashata na Nazi is a good source of iron and vitamin C from the coconut cream.

Alergens

Kashata na Nazi contains coconut, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Kashata na Nazi is a sweet and creamy treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a delicious indulgence.

Summary

Kashata na Nazi is a delightful coconut candy that is sweet, creamy, and full of flavor. This traditional East African treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delicious dessert or snack with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As I flipped through the weathered index cards, my eyes landed on a yellowed piece of paper tucked away in the back.

Curious, I carefully unfolded it and saw the words "Kashata na Nazi" scrawled in elegant cursive at the top. I had never heard of this dish before, but something about the name intrigued me. I could almost taste the exotic flavors just by reading the ingredients list: coconut, sugar, and cardamom.

I knew right then and there that I had to make this dish. But where did this recipe come from? I racked my brain, trying to remember where I had acquired it. And then it hit me - it was from my dear friend Maria, who had spent some time in Tanzania many years ago.

Maria had regaled me with stories of her travels, and she often shared recipes from the different countries she had visited. Kashata na Nazi was one of those recipes, a sweet coconut candy that is popular in Tanzania. I remembered her telling me how she had learned to make it from a local woman she had met during her travels.

Excited to try my hand at making this exotic treat, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The recipe was simple enough - just coconut, sugar, and cardamom cooked together until golden brown and then shaped into small squares. As the aroma of toasted coconut filled my kitchen, I couldn't help but smile at the memories of my friend and her adventures.

When the kashata na nazi was finally done, I couldn't wait to try it. I took a small square and popped it into my mouth, savoring the sweet and nutty flavors. It was delicious - crunchy, chewy, and oh so satisfying. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made kashata na nazi countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that hot summer day when I first discovered the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, who all rave about its unique taste and texture. And every time I make it, I think of Maria and the adventures she had that brought this recipe into my life.

As I sit here now, writing down this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures that cooking can bring. It's not just about following a recipe or making a meal - it's about the memories and the stories that go along with it. And for me, kashata na nazi will always be a reminder of the power of food to connect us to faraway places and dear friends.