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Karupatti Kalla Mittai is a traditional South Indian candy made with just two main ingredients: karupatti (palm jaggery) and roasted peanuts. This delicious and nutrient-packed treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth naturally.

Ingredients (Makes approximately 20 candies)

• Palm jaggery (Karupatti): 250 grams

• Roasted peanuts (without skin): 150 grams

• Water: 3 tablespoons

• Ghee (for greasing): 1 teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Work Surface

1. Grease a flat plate or a small portion of your countertop with a teaspoon of ghee.

2. Keep a rolling pin ready (grease it lightly with ghee as well).

Step 2: Melt the Palm Jaggery

1. Break the palm jaggery into small pieces for easier melting.

2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the jaggery and 3 tablespoons of water.

3. Heat on low-medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the jaggery melts completely.

4. Strain the mixture to remove any impurities and pour the strained liquid back into the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Candy Base

1. Continue heating the strained jaggery syrup on low flame until it thickens and reaches the hardball consistency.

• To check: Drop a small amount of the syrup into a bowl of water. If it hardens into a firm ball that cracks when pressed, it’s ready.

2. Turn off the flame and immediately add the roasted peanuts. Mix well to coat the peanuts evenly.

Step 4: Shape the Candy

1. Quickly transfer the mixture onto the greased surface.

2. Flatten it with the greased rolling pin to your desired thickness (around ½ cm is ideal).

3. While still warm, use a knife or cutter to shape the candy into squares, rectangles, or diamonds.

Step 5: Cool and Store

1. Let the candies cool completely and harden.

2. Gently separate the pieces and store them in an airtight container.

Tips for Perfect Kalla Mittai

• Work quickly during shaping, as the jaggery mixture hardens fast once it cools.

• Ensure the peanuts are roasted well and free of moisture for a crisp texture.

• For added flavor, you can mix in a pinch of cardamom powder or dry ginger powder with the jaggery syrup.

Serving Suggestion

Enjoy Karupatti Kalla Mittai as a healthy snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee! It also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Let us know how your candy turned out! Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below.