As winter's chill sets in, there’s nothing like the comforting sweetness of jaggery to warm your soul. This season, let’s dive into the delightful world of Jaggery Peanut Brittle, or Chikki, and its mouthwatering variations. These crunchy, nutty treats are perfect for cozying up with a cup of tea or sharing as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with exciting twists, each bite is a celebration of winter’s best flavors. Without further ado, let’s dive into these jaggery sweet recipes.
Classic Peanut Brittle (Chikki)
Ingredients:
- 200 gm Peanuts
- 150 gm Jaggery
- 5 ml Ghee (clarified butter)
- 30 ml Water
Instructions:
- Roast the Peanuts: Start by roasting the peanuts in a pan over medium heat. Stir continuously to ensure they roast evenly and don’t burn. Once done, let them cool, and remove the skins by rubbing them between your palms.
- Melt the Jaggery: In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the jaggery and water. Cook on medium heat until the jaggery melts and begins to bubble. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches a hard-ball stage (drop a little syrup in cold water; if it forms a hard ball, it's done).
- Mix and Spread: Quickly add the roasted peanuts to the jaggery syrup and mix well. Add the ghee to give it a glossy finish. Immediately pour the mixture onto a greased surface and spread it evenly with a rolling pin. Let it cool slightly, then cut into desired shapes.
- Cool and Crack: Once completely cool, break into pieces and enjoy the crunch!
Sesame and Almond Brittle (Til Badam Chikki)
Let’s take the classic peanut brittle and give it a nutty twist with sesame seeds and almonds. If you love a Praline Cake, this snack is for you. This variation is perfect for those who love a little extra crunch and nuttiness in their sweet treats.
Ingredients:
- 100 gm Sesame Seeds (Til)
- 100 gm Almonds
- 150 gm Jaggery
- 5 ml Ghee (clarified butter)
- 30 ml Water
Instructions:
- Toast and Roast: Begin by toasting the sesame seeds in a dry pan until they are golden brown. Set aside. Next, roast the almonds until they’re fragrant, then chop them coarsely. Just like in the classic recipe, melt the jaggery with water in a pan until it reaches the hard-ball stage.
- Mix it Up: Add the toasted sesame seeds and chopped almonds to the melted jaggery. Stir quickly and pour the mixture onto a greased surface. Spread it thin and let it cool before cutting it into pieces.
- Nutty Delight: Once cooled, enjoy the sesame and almond brittle that adds a whole new dimension to your winter snack game!
Coconut and Cashew Brittle (Nariyal Kaju Chikki)
For those who prefer a tropical twist to their winter treats, the coconut and cashew brittle is a must-try. The combination of coconut’s sweetness and cashew’s creamy texture makes this variation a hit. Just like you enjoy Chocolate Modak or Nolen Gur Sandesh recipe for a winter snack, these jaggery sweet recipes with a cup of tea or coffee will make your evening memorable once shared with loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 100 gm Desiccated Coconut
- 100 gm Cashews
- 150 gm Jaggery
- 5 ml Ghee (clarified butter)
- 30 ml Water
Instructions:
- Toast the Coconut: Lightly toast the desiccated coconut in a dry pan until it’s golden and fragrant. Roast the cashews separately and chop them into small pieces. Follow the same process of melting the jaggery with water until it’s ready.
- Combine and Spread: Mix the toasted coconut and chopped cashews into the jaggery. Stir well and pour onto a greased surface. Spread it out evenly and let it cool.
- Tropical Treat: Once set, break into pieces and enjoy the coconut-cashew goodness with a cup of hot tea!
Mixed Nut and Seed Brittle
Can’t decide which variation to try? Why not go all in with a mixed nut and seed brittle? It’s a delightful blend of peanuts, sesame seeds, almonds, and cashews – a true medley of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 50 gm Peanuts
- 50 gm Sesame Seeds (Til)
- 50 gm Almonds
- 50 gm Cashews
- 150 gm Jaggery
- 5 ml Ghee (clarified butter)
- 30 ml Water
Instructions:
- Roast and Toast: Roast all the nuts and seeds separately and set them aside. Melt the jaggery as in the previous recipes.
- Mix the Medley: Add all the roasted nuts and seeds to the jaggery, mix well, and pour onto a greased surface. Spread it thin, let it cool, and cut it into pieces.
- Winter Wonderland: Enjoy this mixed nut and seed brittle that’s perfect for those cold winter days.