Imagine a mouthwatering Indian sweet that combines the rich, creamy texture of fresh coconut with the warmth of cardamom and the crunch of nuts - welcome to the world of Kopra Pak! This traditional dessert is not just a treat; it's a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant kitchens of India. Whether you're a dessert lover, a culinary explorer, or simply looking to impress your friends and family with an exotic homemade delicacy, this Kopra Pak recipe is your golden ticket to sweet success!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 12 pieces
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated fresh coconut
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
Instructions
- Prepare a clean, dry baking tray or plate by greasing it lightly with ghee. Set aside for later use.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine sugar and water. Heat the mixture on medium flame, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and forms a light syrup.
- Add the freshly grated coconut to the sugar syrup and continue cooking on medium-low heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Keep stirring the mixture until it starts to thicken and the moisture begins to evaporate. This process will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Add cardamom powder and continue cooking. The mixture will start to leave the sides of the pan and become slightly dry and sticky.
- Add ghee to the mixture and mix thoroughly. This will help enhance the flavor and provide a glossy texture.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts into the mixture and mix well, distributing them evenly throughout the coconut mixture.
- Transfer the hot mixture immediately to the prepared greased tray. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and flatten the surface.
- Allow the Kopra Pak to cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes until it sets and becomes firm.
- Once cooled and slightly hardened, cut into diamond or square-shaped pieces using a sharp knife.
- Let the Kopra Pak pieces cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality grated coconut for the best flavor and texture.
- Stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Keep the heat at medium-low to avoid scorching the mixture.
- The key is patience - don't rush the cooking process; let the moisture evaporate slowly.
- Grease your tray well to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- For a variation, try toasting the nuts before adding them for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use a sharp knife when cutting to get clean, precise pieces.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
- If the mixture seems too wet, continue cooking for a few more minutes to achieve the right consistency.
- Experiment with different nuts like pistachios or a mix of nuts for added complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
