Welcome to the world of delicious Indian sweets! Today, we’re diving into the delightful recipe of Nankhatai. These sweet, crumbly cookies are a special treat from India, especially loved during festivals and celebrations. Nankhatai has been enjoyed for generations and holds a special place in many Indian households.
Historically, Nankhatai is believed to have originated in the city of Surat in Gujarat. These cookies were made by the Parsi community and have since become a popular snack enjoyed by people of all backgrounds. Their unique flavor and texture make them a crowd favorite, perfect for tea-time or as a sweet gift.
What makes Nankhatai so appealing? It’s simple! They’re easy to make, require common ingredients, and are incredibly tasty. Plus, the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking these cookies is simply irresistible!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Chickpea flour (besan) | 1/4 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 1/2 cup |
| Baking soda | 1/4 tsp |
| Cardamom powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Chopped nuts (cashews or almonds) | 2 tbsp |
| Milk (optional) | as needed |
If you want to make it healthier, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, chickpea flour, powdered sugar, baking soda, and cardamom powder.
- Add Ghee: Gradually add the ghee to the flour mixture. Mix until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Form the Dough: If the dough feels too dry, add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together. Knead gently for a minute.
- Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Flatten them slightly and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Add Nuts: Press a piece of chopped nut into the center of each cookie for decoration.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the Nankhatai cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them with tea or give them as a special gift!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | 6% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 5% |
| Fats | 6g | 9% |
| Sugar | 6g | 7% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Flavor Boost: You can add a pinch of saffron for a unique flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to use different nuts or even add chocolate chips for a twist!
- Storage: Keep your Nankhatai in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
- Avoid Overbaking: Watch the cookies closely; removing them from the oven at the right time is key to their texture!
FAQs
What are Nankhatai cookies?
Nankhatai are Indian shortbread cookies that are traditionally made with a mix of flours, sugar, and ghee. They are known for their crumbly texture and lovely flavor.
Can I make Nankhatai vegan?
Yes! You can substitute ghee with coconut oil or any other vegetable shortening to make a vegan version of Nankhatai.
What is the best way to store Nankhatai?
Store your Nankhatai in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If stored properly, they can last longer!
Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great way to give Nankhatai a delicious twist. Just fold them into the dough before shaping the cookies.
What can I serve with Nankhatai?
Nankhatai pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack.
Why are my Nankhatai cookies too hard?
If your Nankhatai are hard, they may have been overbaked. Make sure to check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using whole wheat flour is a healthier option. Just be aware that the texture may be a bit denser.
How do I know when Nankhatai are done?
Your Nankhatai are done when the edges are lightly golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze Nankhatai dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to a month. Just roll it into balls, wrap them well, and thaw before baking.
What is the origin of Nankhatai?
Nankhatai is thought to have originated in Gujarat, India, and is a favorite snack among many communities.
How long do Nankhatai take to bake?
They typically take about 15-20 minutes to bake, depending on your oven.
Can I use almond flour for Nankhatai?
Yes, you can use almond flour, but you may need to adjust the quantity since almond flour behaves differently from all-purpose flour.
Are Nankhatai gluten-free?
Traditional Nankhatai made with regular flour is not gluten-free. However, you can make a gluten-free version using almond or coconut flour.
What is the texture of Nankhatai supposed to be?
Nankhatai should be crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a slightly crispy exterior.
Can I flavor Nankhatai with other spices?
Yes! You can experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to create unique flavors in your Nankhatai.
Now that you have all the information, gather your ingredients and start baking these lovely Nankhatai cookies. Happy baking!
