Badaam paak is a North Indian sweet
commonly served on auspicious occasions.
I made it recently for a Diwali celebration.
Most recipes include the following ingredients, though the proportions
vary. Some versions also include desiccated coconut (for additional sweetness and texture) and milk
powder.
Makes 32 2-inch squares
Ingredients
16 ounces unsalted butter (4 sticks)
20 ounces semolina (sooji)
1 1/2 teaspoons cardamom
1 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
2-3 generous pinches saffron
18 ounces almonds, coarsely chopped
20 ounces sweetened condensed milk
2 ounces pistachios, coarsely
chopped
1 teaspoon white poppy seeds
(optional)
Directions
1. Melt butter in a large heavy-bottom pot on medium heat.
2. Sauté semolina, cardamom, nutmeg and saffron until
mixture is fragrant and light golden brown. This will take 15-30 minutes
depending on the pot and the heat. Semolina can burn quickly so stir
constantly and pay attention to the mixture closest to the bottom of the pot.3. Add 16 ounces almonds and stir for 2 minutes. Then add condensed milk and stir until well mixed.
4. Divide mixture into two 9x9 inch metal baking pans. Use the back of a spoon to distribute the mixture evenly.
5. Sprinkle with remaining almonds, pistachios and poppy
seeds. Press with the back of a spoon to ensure that nuts and seeds
adhere.
6. Cool for 30 minutes at room temperature. While
still warm, use a sharp knife to cut into squares or diamonds.
7. Store in an airtight container lined with wax
paper. Will keep in the refrigerator for 2 weeks and in the freezer for 6
months.
