Shufta Recipe | Just In 8 Easy Steps.

Shufta is a traditional Kashmiri sweet dish that holds a significant place in the culinary heritage of Kashmir, a region in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. This delectable dessert is often prepared during festive occasions and celebrations.

Shufta is made using a variety of dry fruits, such as almonds, pistachios, cashews, and raisins, which are combined with other ingredients like ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and various aromatic spices. The dry fruits are carefully selected and often soaked overnight to enhance their flavor and texture. The mixture is then cooked on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.

The final result is a rich and indulgent dessert with a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch, while the sweetness from the sugar is complemented by the warmth of spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Shifta is often garnished with silver or gold foil and rose petals, adding an elegant touch to its presentation.

This traditional Kashmiri dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also carries cultural significance. It is commonly served during weddings, religious festivals like Eid, and other special occasions as a symbol of celebration and prosperity.

Shifta showcases the culinary expertise and cultural richness of Kashmir, making it a beloved sweet dish cherished by locals and appreciated by food enthusiasts worldwide.

Ingredients Of Shufta Recipe:

To make Shufta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup almonds
• 1 cup cashews
• 1 cup walnuts
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup dried apricots
• 1 cup dried dates
• 1 cup dried coconut flakes
• 1 cup dried figs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 teaspoon saffron strands
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• 1 cup desiccated coconut (for garnish)
• Silver varq (optional, for garnish)

Step By Step Instructions Of Shufta Recipe:

Step 1: Preparing the Nuts and Fruits

Start by blanching the almonds. Place them in a bowl and pour boiling water over them. Let them sit for a few minutes, then drain the water and remove the skins. Similarly, chop the cashews, walnuts, dried apricots, dried dates, and dried figs into small pieces.

Step 2: Sautéing the Nuts and Fruits

In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped nuts, dried fruits, and raisins to the pan. Stir and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they turn slightly golden and aromatic.

Step 3: Adding the Sweeteners and Flavors

Reduce the heat to low and add the sugar, cardamom powder, saffron strands, and rose water to the pan. Mix well to coat the nuts and fruits evenly with the sugar and flavors. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the sugar melts and forms a syrup-like consistency.

Step 4: Allowing the Mixture to Cool

Remove the pan from heat and let the Shufta mixture cool down to room temperature. This will allow the flavors to blend and the sugar syrup to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Shaping the Shufta

Once the mixture has cooled, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small round or oval-shaped balls. Press them firmly to ensure they hold their shape. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Step 6: Garnishing the Shufta

To garnish the Shufta, roll each shaped piece in desiccated coconut flakes until they are completely coated. This adds a delightful texture and appearance to the sweet dish. Additionally, you can decorate the Shifta with silver varq for an elegant touch.

Step 7: Refrigeration and Serving

Place the Shifta balls on a plate or in an airtight container and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the Shufta to firm up and enhances its taste. Before serving, allow the Shifta to come to room temperature for a few minutes.

Step 8: Presentation and Enjoyment

Once the Shifta has reached room temperature, transfer it to a serving plate or tray. You can arrange the Shufta balls in a decorative pattern or pile them in a mound. Serve the Shifta as a delightful dessert during festive occasions or enjoy it as a special treat.

That’s it! You have successfully made Shufta, a delicious and traditional Kashmiri sweet dish. Enjoy its rich flavors and the combination of nuts, dried fruits, and aromatic spices.