Healthy Lifestyle Guide

Karanji is a popular Indian sweet pastry often prepared during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Holi. It is known by various names in different regions of India, such as “Gujiya” in North India and “Karjikai” in South India. Certainly! You can make karanji using cold-pressed oil as a healthier alternative with a traditional blend as a frying oil. Here’s a basic and delicious recipe for making healthy and tasty karanji with the help of Connectroots Cold-Pressed Oil:

Festivals are a time for delicious sweets, but the fried ones can be a health concern, especially for the elderly and those with dietary restrictions. To make our celebrations inclusive and healthy, choosing the right cooking oil is key. By using healthier oils rich in good fats, we keep the festive sweets tasty while making them better for everyone’s health.

This way, we honor our cultural traditions and ensure that our festivities bring people of all ages and dietary needs together. Making thoughtful choices about the oils we cook with not only preserves the joy of our celebrations but also promotes a sense of togetherness and well-being during festivals.

Ingredients of Karanji :

1. For the dough :

• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• A pinch of salt
• Water, as needed

2. For the filling :

• 1 cup desiccated coconut
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

3. For frying :

• Connectroots Cold-Pressed Oil for a healthy and traditional blend

Instructions:

1. For the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and 1/4 cup of ghee. Mix well until the ghee is incorporated into the flour and the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Gradually add water, little by little, and knead the dough until it’s smooth and firm. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2. For the Filling:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add the desiccated coconut and roast it for a few minutes until it turns slightly golden brown. Stir continuously to prevent burning.

3. Add the powdered sugar, chopped nuts, cardamom powder, and poppy seeds (if using). Mix well and cook for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens and comes together. Remove it from the heat and let it cool.

3. Assembling and Frying:

1. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a thin circle, similar to a puri or tortilla. Ensure it’s not too thick.
2. Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of the rolled dough.
3. Fold the dough over the filling to form a semi-circle and press the edges to seal it. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Heat “Connectroots Cold-Pressed oil” in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the stuffed pastries a few at a time.
5. Fry the karanjis until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Flip them occasionally for even frying.
6. Remove the fried karanjis from the oil and place them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade Connectroots Cold-Pressed oil-fried karanjis! The use of Connectroots Cold-Pressed oil adds a healthy and traditional taste as it is pure, nutritious and which intensify the taste and flavour. These sweet pastries are a delightful and healthy treats during festive occasions such as (Ganesh Chaturthi) or any time you crave a delicious snack. Enjoy the sweet cravings with Connectroots Cold-Pressed Oil with mind full of health and the enhanced taste.

At Connectroots, our mission is to celebrate traditions while promoting well-being. With our premium Cold-Pressed Oils range, you can enjoy the richness of festival sweets like karanji while making a health-conscious choice. Our healthier karanji recipe allows you to preserve the essence of Indian festivals while enhancing the health quotient of your celebrations. As you embark on this culinary journey, you’ll discover that with Connectroots Cold-Pressed Oil, you can savor the flavors of tradition without compromise. We hope this recipe adds a touch of health and happiness to your festive celebrations. Connect with Connectroots for more culinary adventures that combine taste and wellness!