Mohanthal

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavours of Mohanthal, a traditional Indian sweet hailing from Gujarat. This exquisite dessert is a celebration of besan (chickpea flour), ghee, and aromatic spices, coming together to create a sweet treat that is truly unforgettable. Mohanthal is known for its dense and fudgy texture, adorned with the goodness of nuts and fragrant saffron strands.

Every bite of Mohanthal is a journey through the flavours and traditions of Gujarat. The nutty undertones of besan combine with the luxurious richness of ghee, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will leave you craving more. Including cardamom, saffron, and nuts adds fragrance and texture to this delightful sweet.

Mohanthal is often prepared during festivals and special occasions in Gujarat, such as Diwali and weddings. Its popularity extends beyond the state, captivating sweet enthusiasts nationwide. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with a cup of masala chai, Mohanthal will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Mohanthal

5 from 1 vote

Mohanthal

Delight in the aromatic flavours of Mohanthal, a traditional Indian sweet from Gujarat. Indulge in the richness of besan, ghee, and fragrant spices - a fudgy, nutty delight for every sweet lover.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time20 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Gujarati, Indian

Ingredients

• 2 cup Bengal Gram Flour
• 1 cup Ghee
• 1/4 cup Unsweetened Khoya crumbled
• 3 cup Sugar
• 1/4 cup Milk
• 1 tbsp Almonds finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Pistachios finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp Saffron Strands mixed with 2 tbsp warm milk
• 2 tsp Cardamom Powder
• few drops Vanilla Essence
• little Silver Foil to garnish

Instructions

• Heat ghee in a pan over medium flame.
• Add the bengal gram flour and stir well until the raw smell disappears.
• Sprinkle milk on top and cover the pan with a lid.
• Stir once or twice and switch off the flame when the gram flour turns light golden brown.
• Heat a pan of water over medium flame.
• Add the sugar and stir well until fully dissolved.
• When it has reached a two-string consistency, remove from flame.
• Add saffron mixture and cardamom powder.
• Mix well.
• Add the khoya, bengal gram flour and mix well until it has thickened.
• Add the vanilla essence and pour this into a greased plate.
• Smoothen the top using the back of a spoon.
• Garnish with almonds, pistachios and silver foil.
• Allow it to cool.
• Before it cools fully, cut into desired shapes.
• Serve or store it in a clear, airtight container.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Mohanthal

Can I make Mohanthal without using ghee?

While ghee plays a crucial role in giving Mohanthal its distinct flavour and texture, you can make a variation of Mohanthal by substituting ghee with unsalted butter or neutral cooking oil. However, it’s important to note that the flavour profile and richness of the dessert may be slightly different compared to the standard version. Ghee contributes to the unique aroma and richness of Mohanthal, so using it will result in a more authentic taste. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can experiment with the substitution, but keep in mind that it may alter the overall character of the dish.

Can I store Mohanthal for a long time?

Yes, Mohanthal can be stored for a decent period if stored properly. It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Mohanthal stays fresh for about a week at room temperature. If you want to extend its shelf life, store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Please bring it to room temperature before serving it to enjoy its flavours and texture. Additionally, you can freeze Mohanthal for up to a month by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw the frozen Mohanthal in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Can I make Mohanthal without using nuts?

Certainly! If you have nut allergies or prefer to omit them, you can make Mohanthal without adding nuts. The nuts in Mohanthal provide a delightful crunch and additional flavour, but the dessert will still be delicious without them. The critical flavours of besan, ghee, and aromatic spices will shine through, offering a rich and fudgy sweet treat. You can replace the nuts with alternative ingredients, such as dried fruits or seeds, to add a different texture and flavour to the Mohanthal.

Can I make a vegan version of Mohanthal?

Mohanthal traditionally contains ghee, which is clarified butter derived from milk. However, you can adapt the recipe to make a vegan version of Mohanthal. Replace the ghee with a plant-based butter substitute or coconut oil for a similar texture and richness. Additionally, ensure that other ingredients, such as milk (if used), are substituted with suitable vegan alternatives, such as almond or soy milk. Mohanthal, made with vegan-friendly ingredients, can retain its authentic flavours and appeal to those following a vegan lifestyle.

Can I add different flavours to Mohanthal?

While the traditional Mohanthal recipe is known for its besan, ghee, and aromatic spice flavours, you can certainly experiment with adding different flavours to personalize the dish. For example, infuse the besan mixture with rose water, cardamom, or saffron for an aromatic twist. You can also add a hint of lemon zest or orange blossom water for a citrusy note. These variations can add a delightful dimension to the classic Mohanthal recipe, allowing you to create your unique version. Remember to start with small quantities and adjust according to your taste preferences to maintain a balanced and harmonious flavour profile.