Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious snack or dessert? Look no further! Alsi ki pinni, made with nutritious flax seeds, is a traditional Indian sweet that's surprisingly easy to make. This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful approach to this wholesome delight, perfect for a quick energy boost or a satisfying treat any time of day. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, and a great example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup flax seeds (alsi)
- 1 cup sugar (or to taste, you can adjust based on your sweetness preference)
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richer flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi powder)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews – optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Roasting the Flax Seeds
Dry roast the flax seeds in a pan over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn them; this takes around 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This simple step enhances the flavor significantly.
Step 2: Preparing the Sugar Syrup
In a separate pan, combine the sugar and milk. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture forms a light syrup. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the roasted flax seeds and ghee to the sugar syrup. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken and come together as a dough-like consistency. This step requires patience and consistent stirring to avoid burning.
Step 4: Adding Flavor and Nuts
Stir in the cardamom powder and chopped nuts (if using). Mix well to ensure the spices and nuts are distributed uniformly.
Step 5: Shaping the Pinnis
Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, grease your palms with ghee or oil. Shape the mixture into small balls or pinnis. You can also flatten them slightly for a more traditional shape.
Step 6: Serving and Storing
Allow the alsi ki pinnis to cool completely before serving. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Alsi Ki Pinni:
- Roasting is Key: Don't skip roasting the flax seeds. It brings out their inherent nutty flavor and enhances the overall taste of the pinnis.
- Low and Slow: Cook the sugar syrup and the final mixture on low heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Consistency is Crucial: The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when formed into balls. If it's too thin, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Variations:
- Add a twist of spice: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm and comforting flavor.
- Dried fruits delight: Add chopped dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
- Coconut crunch: Mix in some desiccated coconut for a delightful coconutty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per pinni – approximate):
Nutritional values will vary depending on the quantity of nuts and sugar used. This is an estimate, and you should consult a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your specific recipe. However, Alsi ki Pinni is generally considered a healthy snack rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids from the flax seeds.
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy addition to your quick dinner ideas, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while nourishing your body. Enjoy this simple yet rewarding homemade cooking experience!