KAJU BARFI

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cashews (kaju)
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp ghee (optional, for greasing)
• 1 tsp cardamom powder (optional, for flavor)
• Silver varak (optional, for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Grind the Cashews:

• Dry roast the cashews on low heat for a few minutes (do not let them change color).

Let them cool, then grind into a fine powder. Be careful not to over-grind, as cashews can release oil and become pasty.

2. Make the Sugar Syrup:

• In a pan, add sugar and water.
• Cook on medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
• Continue cooking until the syrup reaches a one-string consistency (when a drop between your fingers forms a single string).

3. Mix Cashew Powder:

• Lower the heat and slowly add the cashew powder to the sugar syrup.
• Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
• Add cardamom powder (optional) for flavor.

4. Cook the Mixture:

• Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
• The mixture should form a dough-like consistency.

5. Set the Barfi:

• Grease a plate or tray with ghee
• Pour the cashew mixture onto the tray and spread evenly with a spatula.
• Let it cool for a few minutes, then cut into diamond or square shapes.