Authentic Wheat Noodle Jaggery Recipe – Cashew & Poppy Seed Delight

Last Updated on 3 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Wheat Noodle Jaggery Recipe – Cashew & Poppy Seed Delight

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s incredibly close to my heart – a traditional Wheat Noodle Jaggery dessert. It’s a dish my grandmother used to make during festivals, and the aroma always filled the house with warmth. It’s a little bit of work, but trust me, the comforting sweetness and delightful textures are so worth it. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a hug in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Wheat Noodle Jaggery (sometimes called ‘chhena jaggery’ in some regions) is a beautiful blend of rustic simplicity and rich flavors. It’s a wonderfully satisfying treat that’s perfect for cooler evenings or festive occasions. The chewy noodles, the sweet jaggery, and the crunchy cashews create a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy whole wheat in a dessert!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciousness:

• ½ cup Whole wheat flour (approx. 60g)
• 3.5 cups Water (830ml)
• 1 cup Jaggery (approx. 200g)
• ½ tsp Cardamom powder
• 7-8 Cashew nuts
• ½ tsp Poppy seeds
• 1 tbsp Ghee (approx. 15ml)
• Pinch of Salt

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference:

Whole Wheat Flour Varieties

I prefer using regular whole wheat flour (atta) for this recipe. You can experiment with different types, like stone-ground whole wheat, but the texture might vary slightly.

Jaggery: Types and Their Impact on Flavor

Jaggery is unrefined sugar, and it comes in different forms. You can use dark jaggery for a richer, molasses-like flavor, or golden jaggery for a milder sweetness. I usually go for dark jaggery – it gives a lovely depth to the dessert.

Ghee: Clarified Butter – A Traditional Fat

Ghee is essential for that authentic Indian flavor! It adds a beautiful nutty aroma and richness. If you don’t have ghee, you can use unsalted butter, but ghee really elevates the taste.

Cashew Nuts: Roasting for Enhanced Flavor

Don’t skip roasting the cashews! It brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a delightful crunch.

Poppy Seeds: A Unique Texture and Flavor

Poppy seeds add a lovely little pop of texture and a subtle nutty flavor. They’re a classic addition to many Indian sweets.

Cardamom Powder: The Queen of Spices

Cardamom is a must-have in Indian desserts. It adds a fragrant, floral note that complements the jaggery beautifully. Always use fresh cardamom powder for the best flavor!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, in a bowl, mix the whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead to form a firm, smooth dough. This might take a few minutes, but it’s worth the effort! Once formed, cover and let the dough rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the noodles easier to roll.
2. While the dough rests, heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the cashew nuts and roast until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Set the roasted cashews aside.
3. In the same pan, add 3 cups of water and the jaggery. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the jaggery is completely dissolved and the syrup has thickened slightly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Now, it’s time to roll out the noodles! Divide the dough into smaller portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a very thin sheet. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
5. Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into thin noodles. Dust the noodles with flour to keep them separate.
6. Gently add the noodles to the simmering jaggery syrup. Cook on low heat for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the syrup.
7. Finally, stir in the roasted cashews, coconut pieces, poppy seeds, and cardamom powder. Cook for another minute or two, just to combine everything. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the noodles. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Keep stirring while the noodles are cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• The consistency of the syrup should be slightly thick, but not too sticky.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the ghee with a plant-based oil like coconut oil or sunflower oil.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation (Using Alternative Flours): You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture will be different. I’ve had good results with a mix of rice flour and almond flour.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a tiny bit of ginger powder for a warmer spice profile.
• Festival Adaptations (Makar Sankranti, Lohri): My family loves adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds during Makar Sankranti for extra warmth and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This Wheat Noodle Jaggery is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. It’s especially comforting on a cold winter day.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

FAQs

What is the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Dusting the noodles with flour is key! Also, stirring frequently while cooking helps prevent sticking.

Can I use a different type of flour besides whole wheat?

You can experiment, but whole wheat gives it the most authentic flavor and texture. Gluten-free blends are an option, but the result will be different.

What if I don’t have jaggery; can I substitute it with sugar?

You can use sugar, but the flavor won’t be the same. Jaggery has a unique molasses-like flavor that sugar lacks. If using sugar, reduce the quantity slightly as it’s sweeter.

How can I adjust the sweetness level of this dish?

Adjust the amount of jaggery to your liking. Start with a little less and add more if needed.

Is it necessary to roast the cashew nuts, and what does it add to the flavor?

Roasting the cashews is highly recommended! It enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely crunch.