Koa-chhâ-pán: A Delectable Indian Sweet Delight

Ingredients

• 2 cups (200g) freshly grated coconut 2 cups (200g) freshly grated coconut
• 1 cup (200g) jaggery, grated 1 cup (200g) jaggery, grated
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (30g) almonds, chopped 1/4 cup (30g) almonds, chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios, chopped 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• Pinch of saffron strands (optional) Pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 12g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 32g (28g sugars)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large non-stick pan, heat the milk over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the grated jaggery to the pan and stir until it melts completely.
3. 3.
   Add the freshly grated coconut to the pan and mix well.
4. 4.
   Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
5. 5.
   Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) and mix well.
6. 6.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Grease a square or rectangular baking dish with ghee or butter.
8. 8.
   Transfer the mixture to the greased dish and spread it evenly.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the chopped almonds and pistachios on top, pressing them gently into the mixture.
10. 10.
    Allow the Koa-chhâ-pán to cool completely and set for a few hours.
11. 11.
    Once set, cut it into desired shapes and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut — Use freshly grated coconut for the best flavor and texture. If fresh coconut is not available, you can use frozen grated coconut.
• Jaggery — Opt for dark jaggery for a richer flavor. If jaggery is not available, you can substitute it with dark brown sugar.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, toast the almonds and pistachios lightly before adding them to the mixture.
• For a festive touch, garnish the Koa-chhâ-pán with edible silver leaf (varak).
• Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less jaggery.
• Store the Koa-chhâ-pán in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve Koa-chhâ-pán as a delightful dessert after a traditional Indian meal. It pairs well with a cup of hot masala chai or a refreshing glass of rose sherbet.

Presentation advice

Present the Koa-chhâ-pán squares on a decorative platter, garnished with additional chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cardamom powder. You can also serve them in individual dessert bowls for an elegant touch.