Nutty Indulgence

Sweets to impress: A trio of decadent delights

Indulge in these three delightful recipes perfect for sweetening any occasion, whether you are hosting guests or simply treating yourself. From the rich flavors of chocolate Turkish hazelnut barfi to the refreshing twist of nutty strawberry chocolate barks and the comforting decadence of caramel french toast with macadamia nuts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Chocolate Turkish hazelnut barfi

Ingredients:

• 700 gm grated Mawa
• 1 cup sugar, measured and powdered
• 4 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
• 1 Cup Roasted & chopped Hazelnut

Method:

1. Dry roast hazelnuts on a low flame with constant stirring.
2. Remove and cool to room temperature. Then, chop them and set aside.
3. Now, in a pan, cook mawa on a low flame with constant stirring.
4. Once it starts melting and releasing ghee, add in cocoa powder.
5. Mix well and Keep cooking and stirring until the mixture becomes thick and leaves the sides of the pan. 
6. Next, add powdered sugar and combine it all up. Cook for a few more minutes and finally add 3/4 of the hazelnuts.
7. Mix well and transfer the mixture into a lined tray, press evenly, sprinkle hazelnut over the top and press it evenly.
8. Now, let it set for 30 -45 minutes.
9. Cut into desired shape & enjoy!

• Nutty strawberry chocolate barks

By Ayushi Gupta-Mehra:the_foodiediaries

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup Macadamia nuts
• 1 cup dark chocolate
• Fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
• Optional: Coconut flakes or sea salt for topping

Method:

1. Lightly toast 1/3 cup of macadamia nuts until they glisten with a golden hue. Set them aside for later.

2. Melt 1 cup of high-quality dark chocolate; choose the best you can find. You can either do this in the microwave or use a double-boiler method.

3. Thinly slice fresh strawberries and arrange them neatly on a large tray, following the steps shown in the accompanying video.

4. Sprinkle the toasted macadamia nuts over the strawberries, and then generously pour the melted chocolate.

Optional: For an extra layer of flavor, finish off with a drizzle of coconut flakes or a sprinkle of sea salt.

5. Let the barks set by refrigerating them. Once firm, break them into bite-sized pieces, Enjoy!

• Caramel french toast with macadamia nuts

By Sabyasachi Gorai

Ingredients

For french toast batter:

• Milk
• Whole egg
• Honey
• Vanilla pod
• Castor sugar

For caramel sauce:

• Coconut Sugar- 100g
• Cream- 60g
• Butter- 45g

Others:

• Sourdough bread
• Macadamia nuts

Method:

• French toast mixture: Whisk milk, egg, honey, vanilla pod, and castor sugar in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate.
• Caramel sauce: Heat coconut sugar in a saucepan over low flame until golden. Turn off the heat, add butter, and whisk. Gradually add cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
• Assembling: Dip sourdough slices into the French toast mixture and toast in a buttered pan until golden brown. Warm the caramel sauce, mix in macadamia nuts, and pour over the toasted bread. Serve immediately.

Whether you are preparing for a festive gathering or indulging your sweet tooth, these recipes bring rich flavors and delightful textures to your table. Share them with loved ones or savor them on your own, they are bound to impress.