Kaju katli is the elegant diamond-shaped cashew fudge that fills Diwali gift boxes. It has just three main ingredients, cashews, sugar and water, and no milk or khoya, so it is naturally gluten-free. The only skill is knowing when to take the mixture off the heat: once it comes together into a soft dough that leaves the sides of the pan, it is ready.
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Kaju Katli (Cashew Fudge)
Smooth, melt-in-the-mouth cashew fudge diamonds made with just cashews, sugar, water and a touch of cardamom. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for Diwali gift boxes.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grind the cashews to a fine powder in short pulses, stopping to scrape down the sides. Stop as soon as it is powdery; blending too long releases the oil and turns it into cashew butter. Sift and regrind any large pieces.
- Put the sugar and water in a nonstick pan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it boil for 1 minute.
- Turn the heat to low and add the cashew powder and cardamom. Stir constantly for 5 to 7 minutes, until the mixture thickens into a soft, smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Test it: roll a small piece between greased fingers. If it forms a smooth ball that is not sticky, it is ready. If sticky, cook for 1 more minute.
- Transfer to a plate and let it cool for 5 minutes, until warm enough to handle. Add the ghee and knead for 1 to 2 minutes until very smooth.
- Place the dough between two sheets of parchment and roll it out to about 1/4 inch (5 mm) thick. Press on the silver leaf, if using.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes, then cut into diamonds with a sharp knife. Separate the pieces once fully cool.
Notes
Storage: keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 week, or in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Too dry or crumbly? It cooked a little long. Knead in 1 to 2 teaspoons of warm milk while still warm. Too soft? Return it to the pan for 1 to 2 minutes.
Gift idea: pack with milk powder barfi and date and nut ladoo for a mixed Diwali box.
Outside India: use plain raw cashews, not roasted or salted. Edible silver leaf is optional and sold in Indian grocery stores and online.
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