Recipe: How to Make Ghee Mysore Pak

Mysore Pak, a classic South Indian sweet, is known for its rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This variation, Ghee Mysore Pak, enhances those qualities by using ghee, which adds a distinctive aroma and taste. Follow these steps to create this delightful treat at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup besan (gram flour)
• 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
• Sliced almonds or pistachios for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan:

• Grease a plate or tray with a little ghee. This will be used to set the Mysore Pak.

1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:

• In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Keep the syrup warm over low heat while you proceed with the next steps.

1. Roast the Besan:

• Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-low heat. Add the besan and stir continuously to roast it. This step is crucial as it determines the flavor of the Mysore Pak. Keep stirring until the besan turns aromatic and deepens in color. This process usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

1. Combine Besan with Sugar Syrup:

• Once the besan is roasted, reduce the heat to low. Carefully pour the warm sugar syrup into the roasted besan mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

1. Cooking the Mixture:

• Increase the heat to medium and continue stirring the mixture. It will start to thicken as it cooks. Keep stirring and cooking until the mixture leaves the sides of the pan and starts to form a mass. This process takes about 5-7 minutes.

1. Add Cardamom Powder (Optional):

• If desired, add a pinch of cardamom powder to enhance the flavor. Stir well to incorporate.

1. Setting the Mixture:

• Once the mixture reaches a thick, pourable consistency and starts to leave the sides of the pan, immediately pour it onto the greased plate or tray. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to your desired thickness.

1. Garnish (Optional):

• Sprinkle sliced almonds or pistachios over the top for added flavor and decoration. Gently press them into the surface of the Mysore Pak.

1. Cooling and Cutting:

• Allow the Mysore Pak to cool completely at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours, or until it firms up. Once cooled and set, cut it into diamond-shaped pieces using a sharp knife.

1. Serve or Store:
   • Your Ghee Mysore Pak is now ready to be served! Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Enjoy this traditional Indian sweet as a delightful treat after meals or share it with friends and family during festive occasions. The rich aroma of ghee combined with the sweetness of sugar makes Ghee Mysore Pak a favorite among dessert lovers.