Recipe

Magaj Delight

Saffron Almond Fudge: A Rich Indian Delicacy

4.4 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Indian cuisine with this exquisite recipe for Magaj. This traditional sweet treat is a popular dessert in Indian households, known for its rich and creamy texture and aromatic flavors.

Dessert› Magaj

Asian cuisine› Indian cuisine

Preparation time

20 minutes

Cooking time

20 minutes

Total time

40 minutes

Yields

8 servings

Preparation difficulty

Medium

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Lactose-free, Egg-free, Vegan (if ghee is substituted with plant-based oil)

Allergens

Almonds, Milk

Not suitable for

Nut-free, Dairy-free (if ghee is not substituted)

Ingredients

2 cups (240g) almonds, blanched and ground 2 cups (240g) almonds, blanched and ground
1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
1/2 cup (120ml) ghee 1/2 cup (120ml) ghee
1/4 teaspoon saffron strands 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
Slivered almonds and pistachios, for garnish Slivered almonds and pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 18g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1.
In a large non-stick pan, heat the ghee over medium heat.
2.
Add the ground almonds to the pan and sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring continuously.
3.
In a small bowl, soak the saffron strands in warm milk for 10 minutes.
4.
Add the saffron milk, sugar, and cardamom powder to the pan. Mix well.
5.
Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
6.
Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
7.
Grease a square or rectangular dish with ghee and transfer the mixture into it.
8.
Smooth the surface with a spatula and garnish with slivered almonds and pistachios.
9.
Allow the Magaj to cool completely and set for a few hours.
10.
Once set, cut into desired shapes and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

Almonds — Make sure to blanch the almonds before grinding to remove the skin and achieve a smooth texture.

Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor, toast the almonds lightly before grinding.
For a richer taste, use homemade ghee.
Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
Add a pinch of edible silver foil (varak) on top for an elegant touch.
Store Magaj in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Magaj as a dessert after a traditional Indian meal. It pairs well with a cup of hot masala chai.

Presentation advice

Present the Magaj squares on a decorative platter, garnished with slivered almonds and pistachios. Sprinkle a pinch of cardamom powder on top for an extra touch of elegance.