Peanut Chikki Recipe: A Crunchy Delight

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. 1 cup raw peanuts
  2. 1 cup jaggery, grated or chopped
  3. 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
  4. 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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