Melt in Your Mouth Chickpea flour Confection
This is the most popular flour-based confection in North India, where several versions are sold in sweet shops. You could use any type of solid or liquid sweetener, bearing in mind that each varies in sweetening power and that adjustments in cooking time will be necessary. This version, served at the home of the late Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, is one of my favorites. Cooking and preparation time (after assembling...
Sweet Saffron Rice with Currants and Pistachios
This relatively simple sweet rice is made regal by the color and flavor of saffron. The success of the dish depends on the delicate balance of flavors contributed by the rice, saffron and sweetener. Jaggery, light brown sugar, or maple sugar is the best sweetener for this dish. If you use maple syrup or honey, omit 2 table spoons (30 ml) of water. Basmati rice is highly recommended. Preparation time (after...
Nutty Farina Halva with Sliced Carrots
Supermarket farina replaces semolina in this halva. This enriched wheat cereal is available in most supermarkets in three types: instant, quick cooking, and regular. For convenience, you can use one of the two types: pre-toasted Malt-O-Meal farina or cream-of-wheat brand quick-cooking farina. For additional fiber, nutrition, texture and flavor, a mélange of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, bran and wheat germ can be...
Simply Wonderfuls
My spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, called this mock milk fudge a “simply wonderful sweet”. Some varieties include a dash of essence such as vanilla, almond, lemon or lime. This version resembles firm, uncooked fondant in texture and is so easy to assemble that kindergarten children can turn out a successful batch for grown-up treats. I have made this sweet around the world, using different processed...
Semolina and Chickpea Flour Halva with Almonds and Saffron
In Bengal this halva is called mohan bhog, “captivating dish”, and is a personal favorite. Flavored with warm aromatics –saffron, black pepper, fennel seeds and cassia leaves –it is rib-sticking fare for a cold winter day. Preparation and cooking (after assembling ingredients): about 30 minutes Ingredients • Milk or a mixture of 1 cup (240 ml) milk and 1 ¼ cups (300 ml)...