Red Kidney Beans Chocolate Barfi: A Unique and Nutritious Indian Dessert
Red Kidney Beans Chocolate Barfi, a delectable and nutrient-packed treat, blends the earthy flavors of kidney beans with rich, chocolaty undertones. This innovative barfi is a perfect fusion of health and indulgence, making it a delightful dessert to serve at any festival or special occasion. With the goodness of Rajma (Red Kidney Beans), beetroot, and milk powder, this sweet is a healthy alternative to traditional desserts. The addition of cocoa powder and vanilla extract elevates it into a delightful chocolate treat, making it an irresistible indulgence.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rajma (Large Kidney Beans) | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 1 cup |
| Beetroot (boiled and juiced) | 1 cup |
| Milk Powder (Milk Solids) | 200 grams |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cocoa Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/4 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Protein: 7.5g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 30g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 6 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 51 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Soak and Prepare the Beans
Begin by soaking the red kidney beans (Rajma) in water for about 5 to 6 hours. Once soaked, transfer them to a mixer and blend into a smooth paste. You may need to add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to achieve the desired consistency. -
Roast the Kidney Beans Paste
Heat 1 cup of ghee (clarified butter) in a non-stick pan over low-medium heat. Add the red kidney beans paste into the pan and stir continuously. As the mixture cooks, the color of the kidney beans will change, and the ghee will begin to separate. This roasting process will take approximately 25 minutes, so be patient and continue stirring to avoid burning. -
Roast the Milk Powder
While the kidney beans paste is roasting, heat another non-stick pan on low flame and gently roast the milk powder. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once roasted, mix the milk powder into the kidney beans paste, ensuring everything is well combined. -
Prepare the Sugar Syrup
In a separate pan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of beetroot juice. Place the pan on the flame and cook for about 4 minutes. This will create a sugar syrup, which will be added to the kidney beans mixture later. -
Combine and Cook the Mixture
Add the prepared sugar syrup to the red kidney beans and milk powder mixture. Continue to cook the mixture over low flame while stirring constantly. The mixture will begin to thicken. Keep stirring until the desired consistency is reached. Once thickened, turn off the heat. -
Add Flavorings
Add the cardamom powder, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder to the mixture. Stir well to ensure that all the flavorings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. -
Set the Barfi
Grease a flat plate or tray with ghee. Pour the mixture onto the tray and press it gently to even out the surface. Allow the barfi to set at room temperature for about 2 hours. -
Garnish and Cut
Once set, garnish the barfi with silver leaves for an extra touch of elegance (optional). Cut the set mixture into square pieces, and your Red Kidney Beans Chocolate Barfi is ready to serve. -
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The barfi will remain fresh for 8 to 10 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
Red Kidney Beans Chocolate Barfi pairs wonderfully with other Indian sweets, such as Maharashtrian Style Semolina and Yogurt Cake or Karnataka Style Hurigadale Tambittu. This makes it an excellent choice for festivals and celebrations like Diwali or Holi. The rich, fudgy texture and unique flavors of this barfi will surely impress your guests and elevate your dessert table.
Tips for the Perfect Red Kidney Beans Chocolate Barfi:
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Consistency of the Paste: Make sure the kidney beans paste is smooth, as it will affect the texture of the barfi. If the paste is too thick, add a little water to smooth it out.
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Roasting Time: The roasting of the kidney beans paste is crucial. If under-roasted, the barfi may lack depth of flavor, and if over-roasted, the mixture might become too dry.
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Beetroot Juice: Freshly squeezed beetroot juice enhances the color and taste of the barfi. If you use store-bought beetroot juice, ensure itβs pure and without added sugar.
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Ghee: The use of ghee is essential for the rich texture of the barfi, but be sure to use it in moderation to avoid making the barfi too greasy.
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Setting the Barfi: Let the barfi set at room temperature for the best texture. If refrigerated too soon, the barfi might not have the smooth, fudgy consistency thatβs characteristic of this dessert.
Conclusion:
Red Kidney Beans Chocolate Barfi is a dessert that not only pleases the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this unique dessert makes for a great addition to any celebration. Whether you are preparing it for a festive occasion or as a wholesome treat for your family, this barfi is sure to become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire.
Let the rich flavors and velvety texture of this barfi charm your guests and leave them asking for more! Enjoy!
