Deliciously Nutty Karida Kadlekai Recipe: The Perfect Indian Snack

Ingredients

500 grams of peanuts
250 grams of jaggery
2 tablespoons of ghee
1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
1/4 cup of water

Steps and instructions

Start by roasting the peanuts on a low flame until they become crisp and the skin starts to crack.
Allow the peanuts to cool and then remove the skin.
In a pan, add the jaggery and water. Heat the mixture until the jaggery melts completely.
Keep stirring the jaggery syrup until it reaches a one string consistency.
At this point, add the roasted peanuts, ghee, and cardamom powder to the jaggery syrup. Mix everything well.
Allow the mixture to cool a bit. When it is still warm, start making small round balls. Make sure to grease your hands with ghee to prevent sticking.
Let the Karida Kadlekai balls cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Tools for making

Roasting Pan - A pan or skillet to roast the peanuts.
Mixing Bowl - A bowl to mix the roasted peanuts with the jaggery syrup.
Spatula - A tool to stir the jaggery syrup and peanuts.
Measuring Cups - Cups to measure the quantity of peanuts, jaggery, and ghee accurately.
Hand Mixer - An optional tool to mix the jaggery syrup and peanuts if desired.
Greased Hands - To shape the Karida Kadlekai mixture into balls without sticking.

Recipe variations

Instead of peanuts, you can use other nuts like almonds, cashews, or walnuts.
For a twist of flavors, you can add a pinch of cinnamon powder or nutmeg powder to the mixture.
If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute jaggery with honey or maple syrup.
For a crunchier texture, you can add roasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds to the mixture.
If you want a spicier version, you can add a dash of red chili powder or crushed black pepper.

Recipe overview

Karida kadlekai is a traditional Indian sweet made primarily from peanuts and jaggery. This simple yet delicious treat is a staple in many Indian households, especially during festive seasons. The recipe involves roasting peanuts to perfection, creating a sweet and sticky jaggery syrup, and combining these key ingredients with a hint of cardamom for added flavor. The mixture is then rolled into balls, creating a delightful sweet that is both crunchy and soft. This recipe will guide you step by step, ensuring you end up with delectable Karida kadlekai that are sure to impress!

Common questions

Can I use raw peanuts instead of roasted peanuts? No, it is essential to use roasted peanuts in this recipe as they give a crunchy texture and enhance the overall flavor.
What can I use as a substitute for jaggery? If jaggery is not available, you can use brown sugar or palm sugar as a substitute.
Can I use oil instead of ghee? Ghee adds a rich and nutty flavor to the Karida kadlekai. However, if you prefer, you can use melted butter or any neutral cooking oil as a substitute.
How do I know if the jaggery syrup has reached the one string consistency? To check the consistency, take a small amount of the syrup between your thumb and forefinger and gently separate them. If a single string is formed, it has reached the desired consistency.
How long does it take for the mixture to cool before shaping into balls? The time taken for the mixture to cool depends on the room temperature. It usually takes around 5-10 minutes for the mixture to cool down enough to handle and shape into balls.
How long can I store Karida kadlekai? Karida kadlekai can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 weeks. Make sure to keep them in a cool and dry place to maintain their freshness.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A bowl to mix the ingredients together.
Pan - To roast the peanuts and melt the jaggery.
Spatula - Used for stirring the jaggery syrup and mixing the ingredients.
Greased Hands - To shape the Karida Kadlekai balls without sticking.
Airtight Container - To store the Karida Kadlekai and keep them fresh.

Origin stories

Karida kadlekai, also known as peanut jaggery laddu, holds a special place in the culinary traditions of South India. The recipe borrows its name from an annual fair held in Bangalore, named Kadalekai Parishe, dedicated to celebrating the groundnut harvest. Farmers from surrounding areas bring their groundnut produce to sell and people flock from all over to buy and enjoy these fresh peanuts. During this fair, the Karida kadlekai, a delightful sweet treat made from these peanuts, takes center stage. It is often made during festivals and is also a popular homemade snack, enjoyed for its unique blend of nutty and sweet flavors. The simplicity of its ingredients belies its rich taste, making it a favorite among both children and adults.

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.