Chikki 3 way Recipe


Chikki 3 way Recipe



30 min
2-3 People
15 min




Introduction:

 

Namaste! Growing up, I've always been fascinated by the myriad ways in which we express our culture through food. In India, where every region boasts its own unique culinary traditions, the diversity of flavors and ingredients never ceases to amaze me. One such festival that truly celebrates this diversity is Makar Sankranti, known by different names across the country, like Pongal and Poonam. It's a time when we come together to celebrate the harvest season and indulge in traditional sweets like Chikki. Today, I'm excited to share my journey of discovering Chikki in three delightful variations.

 

As a child, I remember eagerly awaiting Makar Sankranti, not just for the joyous kite flying and festivities but also for the delectable treats that adorned our tables. Chikki, with its crunchy texture and rich flavors, always held a special place in my heart. Little did I know back then that this humble sweet could be transformed into a myriad of delectable variations, each more enticing than the last.

 

 

 

Recipe of Three Types of Chikki

 

Ingredients:

 

For Peanut Chikki:

  • 1 bowl Peanuts

For Til Gud (Sesame Jaggery) Chikki:

  • 1 bowl White Sesame Seeds
  • 3-4 tsp Chopped Pistachio

For Dry Fruit Chikki:

  • 1 cup Cashew nuts
  • 1 cup Almonds
  • 3-4 tsp Rose Petals (optional)

For Jaggery Mixture:

  • 3 cups Jaggery
  • 2 tsp Water
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 3 tsp Ghee

 

 

Method:

 

1. For Peanut Chikki:

  • Dry roast the peanuts on medium to low flame until they turn light golden brown and emit a nutty aroma.
  • Allow the roasted peanuts to cool, then remove the skin and keep them aside.

2. For Til Gud (Sesame Jaggery) Chikki:

  • Dry roast the white sesame seeds on low flame until they become fragrant. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
  • Mix chopped pistachios with the roasted sesame seeds.

3. For Dry Fruit Chikki:

  • Dry roast the cashew nuts and almonds separately.
  • Mix the roasted cashews and almonds in a bowl.
  • Optionally, dry roast the rose petals and add them to the bowl with the dry fruits.

4. For Jaggery Mixture:

  • Heat a pan on low flame, then add jaggery and water. Stir until the jaggery dissolves completely.
  • Add baking soda and ghee to the melted jaggery and mix well.
  • Once the mixture is ready, divide it into 3 equal parts.

5. Shaping the Chikki:

  • Quickly pour each portion of the jaggery mixture into separate bowls containing the roasted peanuts, sesame seeds with pistachios, and the mixed dry fruits.
  • Optionally, add dried rose petals to the mixture with dry fruits.
  • Working quickly, pour each chikki mixture onto a greased plate or board.
  • Cover the mixture with foil, butter paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap.
  • Using a rolling pin, roll out each chikki layer evenly.
  • Remove the covering and cut the chikkis into desired shapes using a knife.
  • Let the peanut chikki cool at room temperature. For the dry fruit chikki, you can also roll the mixture into balls to make ladoos.

 

Enjoy these delicious and nutritious chikkis as a sweet treat or snack!

 

 

 

About the Recipe:

 

Chikki, a traditional Indian sweet, is made from jaggery (gud) and various nuts or seeds like peanuts, sesame seeds, or almonds. It is popularly enjoyed during festivals like Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Lohri. What makes Chikki truly special is its versatility, as it can be prepared in multiple ways to suit different tastes and preferences.\

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

  1. Roast Nuts or Seeds: Ensure to roast the nuts or seeds lightly before adding them to the jaggery syrup for enhanced flavor and texture.
  2. Use Good Quality Jaggery: Opt for high-quality jaggery to ensure a rich and authentic taste in your Chikki.
  3. Monitor Syrup Consistency: Pay attention to the consistency of the jaggery syrup; it should reach the soft ball stage before adding the nuts or seeds.
  4. Quick Assembly: Work quickly to mix the roasted nuts or seeds into the jaggery syrup and spread the mixture evenly before it sets.
  5. Cool Completely: Allow the Chikki to cool completely before breaking it into pieces for the perfect crunch.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Chikki pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages and snacks. Here are some delicious pairing options:

 

  • Masala Chai: The warmth of masala chai complements the sweet and nutty flavors of Chikki perfectly.
  • Fresh Fruit: Enjoy Chikki with a side of fresh fruits like apples, bananas, or oranges for a refreshing contrast.
  • Popcorn: The crunchy texture of popcorn contrasts beautifully with the chewiness of Chikki, making it a delightful snack combination.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Chikki:

 

  1. What is Chikki?

    • Chikki is a traditional Indian sweet made from jaggery (gud) and various nuts or seeds like peanuts, sesame seeds, or almonds.

  2. What are the different types of Chikki?

    • There are various types of Chikki, including Peanut Chikki, Sesame Seed (Til) Chikki, and Dry Fruit Chikki, each made with different combinations of nuts or seeds.

  3. Is Chikki healthy?

    • Chikki can be a healthy snack option when consumed in moderation, as it provides essential nutrients from nuts or seeds and natural sweetness from jaggery.

  4. Can Chikki be stored for a long time?

    • Yes, Chikki can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a few weeks, making it a convenient snack option for busy days.

  5. Can I make Chikki without nuts?

    • Yes, you can make Chikki without nuts by using only sesame seeds or a combination of sesame seeds and other seeds like flaxseeds or sunflower seeds.

  6. Is Chikki gluten-free?

    • Yes, Chikki is typically gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. However, it's essential to check the ingredients to ensure there are no hidden sources of gluten.

  7. How can I prevent Chikki from becoming too hard?

    • To prevent Chikki from becoming too hard, ensure the jaggery syrup reaches the soft ball stage and avoid overcooking it.

  8. Can I customize the flavors of Chikki?

    • Yes, you can customize the flavors of Chikki by adding spices like cardamom or cinnamon or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a unique twist.

  9. Can I make Chikki with other sweeteners?

    • While traditional Chikki is made with jaggery, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for different flavor profiles.

  10. Is Chikki vegan?

    • Yes, Chikki is typically vegan as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. However, it's essential to check the ingredients to ensure there are no non-vegan additives.