Authentic Punjabi Pinni Recipe: A Traditional Indian Sweet Delight

Ingredients

1 cup of Wheat Flour
1 cup of Sugar
1 cup of Desi Ghee (Clarified Butter)
1/2 cup of Milk
1/2 cup of Almonds
1/2 cup of Cashews
1/4 cup of Raisins
1/4 cup of Pistachios
1/2 teaspoon of Cardamom Powder

Steps and instructions

Start by dry roasting the wheat flour in a pan on medium heat. Stir continuously and roast until the flour turns golden brown in color. This process will take about 10-15 minutes.
While the flour is roasting, coarsely grind the almonds and cashews together in a blender. Keep them aside.
Once the flour is roasted, add the desi ghee to it and mix well. Cook on low heat until the ghee is well combined with the flour.
Now add the sugar to the pan and mix well. Cook on low heat until the sugar is well combined with the mixture.
Add milk to the pan and mix until everything is well combined. Cook on low heat for another 2-3 minutes.
Now add the ground nuts and raisins to the pan and mix well. Cook on low heat for another 2-3 minutes.
Turn off the heat and add the cardamom powder. Mix well until the cardamom powder is well combined with the mixture.
Allow the mixture to cool down a bit. When it's still warm, take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a round ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
Garnish each pinni with a pistachio and serve.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients
Pan - A wide and shallow pan to roast the wheat flour
Blender - A kitchen appliance to grind the almonds and cashews
Spatula - A utensil to mix and stir the ingredients in the pan
Measuring Cups - Utensils to accurately measure the ingredients
Plate - A flat surface to cool down the mixture and shape the pinni

Recipe variations

Instead of wheat flour, you can use besan (chickpea flour) to make besan pinni.
For a healthier option, you can use jaggery instead of sugar.
Addition of grated coconut can give a unique flavor and texture to the pinnis.
To make it more nutritious, you can add roasted flaxseeds or sesame seeds to the mixture.
For a fruity twist, you can add chopped dates or dried cranberries to the pinnis.
Instead of almonds and cashews, you can use other nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Adding a pinch of saffron strands can enhance the aroma and give a beautiful color to the pinnis.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can lightly roast the nuts before adding them to the mixture.

Recipe overview

Get ready to indulge in a traditional North Indian sweet treat - Pinni. This rich and nutritious delicacy made from whole wheat flour, sugar, ghee, and a mix of dry fruits, is a favorite during winters and special occasions. In this recipe, you will learn how to make authentic Pinni at home in a few simple steps. The process involves roasting flour in ghee until it gets a deep golden color, then adding sugar, milk, and a blend of nuts for added crunch and flavor. Finally, these are shaped into round balls and garnished with pistachios. The result is a batch of delicious Pinnis that melt in your mouth and leave a comforting warmth. Enjoy these as a dessert or a snack anytime you crave something sweet.

Common questions

What is Pinni?
Pinni is a traditional Punjabi sweet made from wheat flour, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and nuts. It is often prepared during festivals or special occasions.
How long does it take to roast the wheat flour?
The wheat flour usually takes about 10-15 minutes to roast on medium heat. It is important to continuously stir it to ensure even browning.
Can I use any other type of flour?
Traditionally, Pinni is made using wheat flour. However, you can experiment with other flours if desired. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the final product.
Can I use any type of nuts?
While the recipe calls for almonds, cashews, and pistachios, you can use other nuts of your choice or customize the combination according to your preference.
How long can Pinni be stored?
Pinni can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 weeks at room temperature. Make sure to keep it in a cool and dry place to maintain its freshness.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar according to your taste. Keep in mind that it may affect the overall texture and taste of the Pinni.
Can I make Pinni vegan-friendly?
The traditional recipe for Pinni uses ghee (clarified butter), which is not vegan. However, you can try substituting ghee with coconut oil or any other plant-based oil to make it vegan-friendly.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix all the ingredients together.
Pan - A heavy-bottomed pan to roast the wheat flour and cook the pinni mixture.
Blender - A blender to grind the almonds and cashews.
Spatula - A spatula or wooden spoon to stir and mix the ingredients while cooking.
Measuring Cups - Measuring cups to accurately measure the flour, sugar, milk, and ghee.
Plate or Tray - A plate or tray to cool and serve the pinni.

Origin stories

Pinni, the traditional Indian sweet, traces its origins back to the state of Punjab in North India. As a region that grows wheat in abundance, it's no wonder that the Punjabis invented a dessert that uses wheat flour as its main ingredient. These wholesome spheres of sweetness are not just beloved treats but also serve a functional purpose. Pinni is rich in energy and warmth, a necessity for the harsh winters of Punjab. It's often associated with the festival of Lohri, which marks the end of winter, and is served to guests as a symbol of Punjabi hospitality. The tradition of making pinni has been passed down through generations and continues to be a staple in Punjabi households, a testament to the resilience and richness of Punjabi culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.