Mangalorean Date and Coconut Roll

Ingredients

The Mangalorean Date and Coconut Roll takes inspiration from the Canadian Matrimonial Cake but incorporates the unique flavors and ingredients of Mangalorean cuisine. While the original recipe uses oats and butter for the crust, this adaptation replaces them with freshly grated coconut, giving it a distinct tropical twist. Additionally, the filling is enhanced with traditional Mangalorean spices like cardamom and nutmeg, adding a delightful aroma and flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Matrimonial Cake, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) pitted dates, chopped 2 cups (240g) pitted dates, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
• 1 cup (80g) freshly grated coconut 1 cup (80g) freshly grated coconut
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) ghee (clarified butter) 1/4 cup (60g) ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 28g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, cardamom powder, and nutmeg powder. Cook over medium heat until the dates soften and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. 3.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated coconut, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ghee, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined and form a crumbly texture.
4. 4.
   Take half of the coconut mixture and press it firmly into the greased baking dish to form a crust.
5. 5.
   Spread the cooled date filling evenly over the crust.
6. 6.
   Take the remaining coconut mixture and sprinkle it over the date filling, pressing it gently.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into slices.
9. 9.
   Serve the Mangalorean Date and Coconut Roll as a delightful dessert or snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dates — Ensure that the dates are pitted and chopped before cooking.
• Freshly grated coconut — Use freshly grated coconut for the best flavor and texture. If unavailable, you can use desiccated coconut, but rehydrate it with a little warm water before using.
• Ghee — If you prefer a vegan version, replace ghee with coconut oil.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts like almonds or cashews on top before baking.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less sugar in the date filling.
• Serve the Mangalorean Date and Coconut Roll warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to suit your needs.

Serving advice

Serve the Mangalorean Date and Coconut Roll as a dessert or snack. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the roll with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. You can also garnish it with a few strands of saffron or a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for an elegant touch.