Katri Recipe for Janmashtami Festival

Katri (also known as Katri Mithai) is a traditional Indian sweet often prepared during festivals like Janmashtami. It’s a simple yet delicious dessert made with basic ingredients like milk and sugar. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make Katri at home:

DALL·E 2024-08-26 17.14.49 - A traditional Indian sweet called Katri Mithai, served on a plate for the Janmashtami festival. The sweet is cut into diamond-shaped pieces, with a sm

Ingredients

1 liter full-fat milk
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios)
1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) for greasing
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Milk Base:
- Boiling the Milk: Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed pan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the Milk: Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the milk simmer. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom and sides of the pan. Continue simmering until the milk reduces to about half of its original volume. This will take around 30-40 minutes.
2. Add the Sweetness and Flavor:
- Adding Sugar: Once the milk is reduced, add the sugar and stir well. Allow the sugar to dissolve completely, and let the mixture thicken further. Keep stirring occasionally.
- Flavoring: Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) to the mixture. Mix well to incorporate the flavors.
3. Thicken the Mixture:
- Reduce Further: Continue cooking the milk mixture until it thickens to a semi-solid consistency. The mixture should start leaving the sides of the pan and come together as a mass. This may take another 20-30 minutes.
4. Set the Katri:
- Prepare the Plate: Grease a flat plate or tray with ghee to prevent sticking.
- Spread the Mixture: Once the mixture is ready, pour it onto the greased plate and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top and gently press them into the mixture.
5. Cool and Cut:
- Cooling: Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about an hour.
- Cutting: Once cooled and set, cut the Katri into diamond or square shapes using a sharp knife.
6. Serve:
- Your delicious Katri is ready! Serve it as a prasad (offering) during Janmashtami or enjoy it with your family and friends.

Katri Mithai is a traditional Indian sweet typically made during festivals like Janmashtami. This recipe focuses on simplicity and traditional methods, ensuring that the flavors and textures are reminiscent of authentic homemade sweets. Adjust the sweetness to your preference, and feel free to experiment with additional flavors like rose water or condensed milk for a richer taste.