Coconut barfi is an important part of many festivals and celebrations in India, such as Diwali, Eid, and weddings. It is often offered as a sweet offering to deities during religious ceremonies and is also shared with family and friends as a symbol of love, friendship, and happiness.
Coconut barfi is a perfect blend of taste, culture, and health, making it a delightful dessert option that not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also provides various health benefits and it is not only popular in but the entire South-East Asia with different variants across the continent.
Biting into a piece of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that is rich in flavor and bursting with tropical sweetness. The coconut barfi is a dessert that promises just that. Made with freshly grated coconut and cooked with condensed milk and sugar. With each bite, you’ll taste the delicate flavor of coconut, followed by the rich and creamy sweetness of condensed milk. The texture of the barfi is soft and chewy, with just the right amount of crunch from the added nuts and cardamom powder.
It is not only delicious but the fiber in coconut helps improve digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management. The vitamins and minerals found in coconut, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, support healthy bones, muscles, and nerve function. Additionally, coconut is also known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help boost the immune system and protect against infections. Although, people with diabetes might just want to stay away from it because of its high sugar content.
So, to indulge in this delicious and nutritious delight you need to have the following:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups freshly grated coconut
- 1 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- Silver foil (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat a non-stick pan on medium heat and add ghee to it.
- Once the ghee is melted, add the grated coconut to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the condensed milk into the pan and mix well with the coconut.
- Keep stirring the mixture continuously for 8-10 minutes or until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
- Add the chopped nuts and cardamom powder to the mixture and mix well.
- Grease a square or rectangular dish with ghee and pour the mixture into it. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes and then cut it into small square-shaped pieces.
- Optional: Place a small piece of silver foil on top of each piece for decoration.
And your delicious coconut barfi is ready to serve! You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
