### Kalakand Recipe – How to Create Kalakand at Home with Khoya
Kalakand is a beloved Indian sweet, particularly favored during celebrations like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri. This luxurious, tender, and crumbly milk-based delicacy dissolves in your mouth, making it a preferred choice for dessert enthusiasts. The classic method involves using chenna (coagulated milk solids) and khoya (concentrated milk), sweetened with sugar and subtly infused with cardamom.
#### Ingredients
– **For Chenna:**
– 1 liter of full-fat milk
– 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar
– **For Khoya:**
– 1 liter of full-fat milk
– **For Kalakand:**
– 1 cup chenna
– 1 cup khoya
– 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts (pistachios or almonds) for decoration
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare Chenna:**
– Heat the milk in a heavy-bottomed pot.
– Once it boils, gradually add lemon juice or vinegar, stirring gently until the milk begins to curdle.
– Strain the curds using a muslin cloth or fine sieve and rinse under cold water to eliminate the acidic flavor. Squeeze out excess water and set aside.
2. **Prepare Khoya:**
– In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the milk over low heat.
– Continuously stir until the milk reduces to approximately one-fourth of its starting volume. This process takes time, so be patient. Once it thickens, allow it to cool.
3. **Making Kalakand:**
– In a non-stick skillet, mix the prepared chenna, khoya, and sugar.
– Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and separates from the sides of the skillet.
– Incorporate cardamom powder and blend thoroughly.
4. **Setting the Kalakand:**
– Pour the mixture into a greased plate or tray, spreading it out evenly.
– Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then cut it into squares or diamond shapes.
– Top with chopped nuts before serving.
5. **Serving:**
– Allow the kalakand to set fully before serving. It can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days.
#### Tips
– Make sure to use full-fat milk for a more indulgent flavor.
– Modify the sweetness based on your preference.
– For a faster option, consider using store-bought chenna and khoya.
Kalakand is more than just a sweet; it represents the essence of festivity and happiness during celebrations. With this recipe, you can effortlessly create this delightful treat at home and share it with your family and friends during special events. Savor the sweet taste of tradition!