Chakka Payasam

Chakka Payasam is a traditional Kerala dessert made with ripe jackfruit, jaggery, and coconut milk. Here's a simple recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• Ripe jackfruit: 1 cup, deseeded and chopped
• Jaggery: 1 cup, grated
• Thick coconut milk: 1 cup
• Thin coconut milk: 2 cups
• Cardamom powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Ghee (clarified butter): 2 tablespoons
• Cashew nuts: 2 tablespoons
• Raisins: 1 tablespoon

Instructions:

1. Cook the Jackfruit:
• In a pot, cook the chopped jackfruit with a little water until it becomes soft. Mash it slightly with the back of a spoon.
2. Prepare the Jaggery Syrup:
• In a separate pan, melt the grated jaggery with a little water on low heat until it forms a thick syrup. Strain to remove any impurities.
3. Combine Jackfruit and Jaggery:
• Add the mashed jackfruit to the jaggery syrup. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and blends well.
4. Add Coconut Milk:
• Pour in the thin coconut milk and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens again.
• Add the thick coconut milk and cardamom powder. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes. Remove from heat before it starts to boil.
5. Garnish:
• Heat ghee in a small pan. Fry the cashew nuts until golden brown, then add the raisins and fry until they puff up.
• Add the fried cashews and raisins to the payasam and mix well.
6. Serve:
• Serve warm or chilled as a delicious dessert.

Enjoy your Chakka Payasam!