Nagpuri Orange Barfi: The Vibrant Indian Sweet With Citrus Twist
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Nagpuri orange barfi is a special type of Indian sweet that originates from Nagpur, a city in Maharashtra known for its delicious oranges. This barfi is made with fresh Nagpuri oranges, which impart a unique tangy and citrusy flavour to the traditional barfi. It's a fusion of sweetness from the barfi and the refreshing zest from the oranges, creating a delightful and distinct treat.

Fresh Nagpuri oranges are used to extract the juice and zest, which is then combined with sugar, milk, ghee (clarified butter), and occasionally nuts like cashews or almonds over low heat to produce Nagpuri orange barfi. This combination of ingredients gives it a creamy, smooth texture that stands out from other kinds of barfi with a sharp citrus aroma. What makes Nagpuri orange barfi special is its unique combination of sweet and tangy flavours, making it a favourite during festive occasions and celebrations and a delightful treat for citrus lovers.

Tips To Make The Perfect Nagpuri Orange Barfi

  • Use Fresh Nagpuri Oranges: The key to getting that vibrant citrus flavour is using fresh Nagpuri oranges. Juicing them right before making the barfi ensures maximum freshness and flavour.
  • Strain the Orange Juice: To remove any pulp or seeds, strain the freshly squeezed orange juice before using it in the recipe. This helps in achieving a smooth texture in the barfi.
  • Choose Full-Fat Milk Powder: Using full-fat milk powder adds richness and creaminess to the barfi. It's essential for achieving the desired texture and flavour.
  • Stir Continuously: While cooking the mixture, stir continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency in the barfi.
  • Control The Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Some oranges can be quite sweet, so you may need less sugar in the recipe.
  • Add Cardamom Powder: Cardamom powder adds a subtle aromatic flavour that complements the citrusy notes of the orange. It enhances the overall taste of the barfi.
  • Garnish With Nuts: Chopped pistachios or almonds make for a beautiful and crunchy garnish on top of the barfi. They also add a contrast in texture to the soft barfi.

Nagpuri Orange Barfi Recipe

Here's how you can make this regional delight from the comfort of your kitchen with this recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh Nagpuri orange juice (strained)
  • 1 cup of full-fat milk powder
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)

Method:

  • In a non-stick pan, combine the orange juice, milk powder, sugar, and ghee.
  • Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan.
  • Add cardamom powder and mix well.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or tray and spread it evenly using a spatula.
  • Garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds, if desired, pressing them gently into the barfi mixture.
  • Allow the barfi to cool completely at room temperature.
  • Once cooled, cut the barfi into desired shapes, such as squares or diamonds.
  • Your barfi is ready to be served. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.