A-One Barfi (Sugar Free Version Included)

INGREDIENTS

Khoya, 1 cup crumbled at room temp (Nanak brand used)

Sugar (fine, granulated), 1 cup (more, according to taste) --- Sugar free version: Erythritol granulated, 1 cup (add gradually, it may sweeten in lesser amount)

Cardamom powder, 1/8 teaspoon

Rose water / Kewra, few drops (optional)

Pistachios, 1/4 cup, fine chopped (optional)

Milk, 1/4 cup

Canola (or vegetable) oil, 1/2 tablespoon

Aluminum foil

A-ONE BARFI MAKING BEGINS

1. In a large cooking pan, add 1/2 tablespoon canola (or vegetable oil), 1 cup crumbled khoya, 1 cup sugar (3/4 cup Erythritol granulated for sugar free version), 1/8 teaspoon cardamom powder, and a few drops rose water or kewra (optional). Mix these well before setting on heat.

2. Set to medium heat to avoid burning the khoya and continue mixing the ingredients. Continue smashing the khoya crumbles as it cooks. 

3. Check a bit of the mixture for sweetness, add more sugar (erythritol granulated for sugar free version) accordingly.

4. Cook until the mixture becomes thick and paste-like and a bit of oil begins to separate. 

5. Pour the mixture on a large piece of aluminum foil, set on a flat surface like the countertop. Using a spatula (a butter knife would work!) spread the mixture out, maintaining thickness of 3/4 inch and above - just the right thickness for a Barfi piece. 

6. Garnish with chopped pistachios if you're planning on using them. 

7. Once the mixture cools down, cover it with another piece of foil and keep it in the fridge to set a minimal of 5-6 hours.