Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. On this auspicious occasion, devotees welcome Lord Ganesha into their homes with loud drum beats and various traditional offerings. Among the numerous delicacies offered to Lord Ganesha, sweets such as modaks, motichoor laddus, besan laddus, and coconut burfi are considered favorites. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious treat to please Lord Ganesha this year, coconut burfi is a perfect choice!
This year’s Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on September 6th, and the festivities will last for ten days, culminating in the immersion of the idol on September 17th. Each day, devotees prepare different dishes as offerings to the beloved deity. Let’s dive into the easy recipe for coconut burfi, ensuring that your celebrations are both sweet and memorable!
Ingredients for Making Coconut Burfi
To make coconut burfi, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole coconut or 2 to 3 cups of desiccated coconut
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 to 3 green cardamom pods, powdered
- Nuts for garnishing (pistachios, almonds, cashews)
- 1 to 1.5 cups of sugar
- About 1 to 1.5 cups of water
- A plate for setting the burfi
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut
Begin by peeling the coconut and grating it finely. In a pan, heat the ghee and add the grated coconut. Sauté it gently, being careful not to let it become crispy or burn. Once lightly toasted, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine about 1 to 1.5 cups of water and the sugar according to the amount of coconut used. Heat it until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup reaches a sticky consistency. To check if the syrup is ready, drop a small amount into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it’s perfect for the next step. Add the toasted coconut and khoya (if using) into the syrup, mixing well, along with a pinch of cardamom powder for flavor.
Step 3: Set the Burfi
The mixture sets quickly, so work fast! Spread the hot mixture evenly onto a greased plate to form a thick layer. Garnish the top with chopped nuts like pistachios, almonds, and cashews, or sprinkle with freshly grated coconut for extra texture. Let it cool for about 15 to 20 minutes. Once set, cut it into squares or diamond shapes with a sharp knife.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Coconut burfi can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It makes for an excellent sweet treat during the festive season and can also be packaged nicely for gifting to friends and family. Serve it as a part of the prasad (offering) during Ganesh Chaturthi or enjoy it as a delightful snack anytime!
Conclusion
Coconut burfi is not only easy to prepare but also adds a sweet touch to your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. With its rich flavors and delightful texture, this traditional sweet will undoubtedly be a hit among your family and guests. Embrace the festive spirit by preparing this delectable coconut burfi, and make your offering to Lord Ganesha a memorable one!
