Chandrakala & Suryakala Recipe – A Festive Delight

• Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp (From Miller Stores for an aromatic touch)
• A Pinch of Salt
• A Pinch of Baking Soda
• Water – As required (For kneading)

For the Filling:

• Sweetened Mawa – 200g (Or use unsweetened mawa and add powdered sugar)
• Chopped Nuts – As per preference (Almonds, cashews, pistachios)
• Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp (For flavor enhancement)

For the Sugar Syrup (Chashni):

• Water – ½ cup
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Saffron Strands – A few (For a royal touch)
• Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp
• Orange Food Color – Optional

For Frying & Garnishing:

• Ghee or Oil – For deep frying
• Chopped Pistachios – For garnishing
• Rose Petals & Saffron – For an elegant festive look

Why Use Khapli Wheat for Chandrakala & Suryakala?

Traditionally, these sweets are made with maida, but substituting it with Khapli wheat flour makes them healthier and richer in fiber, protein, and good fats. Combined with pure ghee and aromatic cardamom powder, this recipe delivers an authentic and wholesome festive delight.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine Khapli wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and baking soda.
2. Add ghee from Miller Stores and mix well until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add water and knead into a firm dough.
4. Coat the dough with ghee, cover, and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a bowl, mix sweetened mawa with chopped nuts.
2. Add cardamom powder from Miller Stores for extra flavor.
3. If using unsweetened mawa, mix in powdered sugar to adjust sweetness.

Step 3: Shape the Chandrakalas & Suryakalas

1. Divide the dough into small portions and roll them out into thin discs.
2. Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of one disc.
3. Cover it with another disc and seal the edges by pinching and twisting to create a decorative pattern.
4. Repeat the process for all pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Sugar Syrup (Chashni)

1. In a pan, heat water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cardamom powder and saffron strands for a rich aroma.
3. Optionally, add a few drops of orange food color for a vibrant look.
4. Cook until the syrup reaches one-string consistency, then set aside.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

1. Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan over low heat.
2. Gently add the Chandrakalas & Suryakalas and fry them on low flame until they turn golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain excess oil and set them aside.

Step 6: Coat and Garnish

1. Dip the warm Chandrakalas & Suryakalas into the prepared sugar syrup, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Garnish with chopped pistachios, saffron strands, and rose petals for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

These royal sweets are best enjoyed fresh as a Diwali special treat. Serve them alongside hot chai or saffron-infused milk for a delightful festive experience. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.