Peanut Chikki, also known as Peanut Brittle, is a popular Indian sweet that combines the nutty goodness of roasted peanuts with the sweetness of jaggery. This crunchy and delightful treat is not only easy to make but also a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Let's embark on a journey to create homemade Peanut Chikki.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup
raw peanuts
- 1 cup
jaggery, grated or chopped
- 1/4
teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
- 1
tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
Instructions:
1. Roasting Peanuts:
a. Dry Roast Peanuts: - In a pan, dry roast the raw
peanuts over medium heat until they become golden brown. Stir continuously to
ensure even roasting.
b. Remove Skin: - Allow the roasted peanuts to cool
slightly. Rub them between your palms to remove the skins. You can also use a
kitchen towel to help with this process.
c. Coarse Crush: - Coarsely crush the peanuts using a
rolling pin or pulse them in a food processor. Set aside.
2. Preparing Jaggery Syrup:
a. Melt Jaggery: - In the same pan, add ghee and
grated or chopped jaggery.
b. Melting Jaggery: - Melt the jaggery over low heat,
stirring continuously to avoid burning.
c. Check Consistency: - Check the jaggery consistency
by dropping a small amount into a bowl of water. It should form a hard ball.
This indicates that the syrup is ready.
3. Mixing Peanuts and Jaggery:
a. Add Crushed Peanuts: - Add the coarsely crushed
peanuts to the melted jaggery. Also, add cardamom powder if desired.
b. Mix Thoroughly: - Mix the peanuts and jaggery
syrup thoroughly, ensuring that all the peanuts are well-coated.
4. Shaping and Setting:
a. Grease Surface: - Grease a flat surface or a plate
with a little ghee to prevent sticking.
b. Spread Mixture: - Quickly transfer the
peanut-jaggery mixture onto the greased surface and spread it evenly with a
spatula.
c. Shape and Cool: - While it's still warm, use a
rolling pin to flatten the mixture, shaping it into a uniform layer. - Allow it
to cool for a few minutes but cut it into desired shapes before it hardens
completely.
5. Serving:
a. Break into Pieces: - Once the Peanut Chikki has
completely cooled and hardened, break it into pieces along the cut lines.
b. Store: - Store the Peanut Chikki in an airtight
container. It stays fresh for several weeks.
Tips:
- Be
cautious while melting jaggery to avoid overcooking or burning.
- You
can add a pinch of salt for a hint of contrast in flavors.
- Experiment
with adding sesame seeds or desiccated coconut for variations.
Peanut Chikki is a delightful and nutritious treat that
brings the wholesome goodness of peanuts together with the sweetness of
jaggery. Whether enjoyed as a snack or shared during festive occasions, this
homemade Peanut Chikki is sure to be a crunchy delight for all.
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