Introduction:
India is a land of diverse cultures and cuisines, and its sweets hold a special place in the hearts of its people. Among the myriad of traditional Indian desserts, Chandrakala stands out as a regal and exquisite treat. With its delectable filling, delicate pastry, and unique shape reminiscent of a half-moon, Chandrakala is a sweet fit for royal celebrations and festive occasions. In this blog, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide to make your own unique Chandrakala and savor the essence of Indian royalty.
Step 1: Assemble the Ingredients:
To create the enchanting Chandrakala, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
A pinch of salt
Water for kneading
For the Filling:
1 cup khoya (milk solids)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews, etc.)
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
As the pinch of saffron strands is soaked in 1 tablespoon of warm milk, a mesmerizing transformation occurs.
For the Sugar Syrup:
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
A few saffron strands
1/2 teaspoon rose water
Step 2: Preparing the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, unite the all-purpose flour, ghee, and a hint of salt.
Incrementally incorporate water and knead the mixture into a seamless and resilient dough.
Envelop the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Making the Filling:
In a non-stick pan, crumble the khoya and cook it on medium heat until it turns slightly golden.
Add the powdered sugar, chopped nuts, cardamom powder, and the soaked saffron strands along with the milk.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly and cook for a few more minutes until the mixture comes together as a cohesive filling.
Remove the pan from the heat and allow the filling to cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Shaping the Chandrakala:
Divide the dough into small, uniform portions and roll each portion into smooth balls.
Roll each ball into a small disc, ensuring the edges are thinner than the center.
Position a spoonful of the prepared filling at the center of each disc.
Fold the disc in half, covering the filling, and seal the edges by pressing them gently together to form a half-moon shape. For an added decorative touch, utilize a fork to create a pattern along the edges.
Step 5: Frying the Chandrakala:
Heat sufficient oil in a deep-bottomed pan on medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully slide the prepared Chandrakala into the oil, a few at a time.
Fry them until they achieve a delightful golden brown color and become crisp on both sides.
Remove the fried Chandrakala using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 6: Preparing the Sugar Syrup:
In a separate saucepan, combine sugar and water, and bring it to a boil.
Add a few saffron strands and let it simmer until the sugar dissolves completely, forming a syrup of one-string consistency.
Turn off the heat and stir in the rose water to infuse a delightful aroma.
Step 7: Soaking the Chandrakala:
Dip the fried Chandrakala in the prepared sugar syrup, ensuring they are coated evenly.
Let them soak for a few minutes to absorb the flavors of the syrup.
Step 8: Serving Your Unique Chandrakala:
Transfer the soaked Chandrakala to a serving platter.
Garnish them with a few chopped nuts and saffron strands for an appealing touch.
Serve these royal delights warm or at room temperature to experience their heavenly taste.
Conclusion:
Chandrakala, with its rich khoya filling and delicate pastry, embodies the essence of Indian royalty. By following this step-by-step guide, you can now create your own unique batch of Chandrakala and relish the flavors fit for a king's feast. Whether it's a joyous celebration or a festive occasion, Chandrakala is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, let your culinary skills shine and indulge in the regal decadence of this enchanting Indian sweet. Happy cooking!
