Magas Recipe

Jennifer Segal

15 May, 2024

Discover the secrets to perfect Magas (Besan Barfi) with our mouthwatering recipe guide – a taste of India's sweetest traditions!

Magas

Publisher: Crisp Recipe
Cuisine: Indian
Category: Dessert, Sweet
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 16 pieces
Calories: 80 calories

Magas, also known as Besan Barfi, is a popular Indian sweet delicacy that holds a special place in the hearts of many. This sweet treat is known for its rich, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Magas is often prepared during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions, making it a symbol of joy and togetherness.

The key ingredient in Magas is chickpea flour, also called besan, which is roasted to a golden-brown perfection. This slow-roasting process enhances the flavor, imparting a delightful nuttiness to the dish. Ghee, or clarified butter, is another crucial component, contributing to the smooth and creamy consistency of the sweet.

To sweeten Magas, a sugar syrup is prepared and blended with the roasted chickpea flour. The addition of aromatic cardamom powder and chopped nuts, such as almonds or cashews, elevates its taste and provides a pleasant crunch.

Magas is often cut into square or diamond-shaped pieces and makes for an ideal gift during festivities. Its simple yet indulgent taste has made it a beloved part of Indian cuisine, showcasing the artistry of traditional Indian sweets.

Whether enjoyed as a dessert after a hearty meal or shared with loved ones on special occasions, Magas represents the rich tapestry of Indian culinary traditions and the warmth of hospitality.

Recipe

Indulge in the sweet magic of Magas with our step-by-step recipe. Unlock the flavors of this classic Indian dessert – your guide to a perfect Magas!

Ingredients

1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
A handful of chopped nuts (like almonds or cashews)

Method Instructions

Heat ghee in a pan on medium-low heat. Once the ghee is melted, add the besan (chickpea flour).
Stir continuously and roast the besan on low heat until it turns golden brown. This may take around 10-15 minutes. Be patient; slow roasting is the key to good Magas.
While the besan is roasting, in another pan, heat water and sugar to make a sugar syrup. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then simmer it for a few minutes until you get a one-string consistency. To check, take a drop of syrup between your thumb and forefinger; if it forms a string, it's ready.
Once the besan turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, pour in the sugar syrup while continuously stirring. Be cautious as it might splatter.
Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add cardamom powder and chopped nuts and mix well.
Transfer this mixture to a greased plate or tray and flatten it using a spatula.
Allow it to cool for a few hours. Once it's set, cut it into pieces of your desired shape.

Your Magas is ready to be served! Enjoy your homemade sweet treat.

Recipe Video

Magas

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Recipe Tags: Magas, Magas Recipe, Recipe

Servings

Serving Magas is quite simple and delightful. Here's how you can present and enjoy this Indian sweet:

Cut into Pieces: After making Magas and allowing it to cool and set (which might take a few hours), cut it into square or diamond-shaped pieces. A typical size is about 1 inch by 1 inch, but you can adjust the size to your preference.
Plate it: Arrange the pieces on a serving plate. You can use a decorative plate or tray to make it look more appealing.
Garnish (Optional): While not necessary, you can enhance the presentation by garnishing with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of edible silver or gold leaf for a touch of elegance.
Serve at Room Temperature: Magas is best enjoyed at room temperature. It's soft and creamy when it's not too cold, so there's no need to refrigerate it unless you live in a very hot climate.
Pairing: Magas is often served with a cup of masala chai (spiced tea) or a glass of milk to balance the sweetness. It can also be a delightful addition to a platter of assorted Indian sweets during festivals.
Enjoy: Simply pick up a piece of Magas and savor the rich, nutty, and sweet flavors. It's a delightful treat that's perfect for celebrations or as an after-dinner dessert.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Enjoy your homemade Magas!

Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your chickpea flour (besan), ghee, and nuts are fresh. Fresh ingredients will yield a better-tasting Magas.
Low and Slow Roasting: Roasting the besan on low heat is crucial. This slow-roasting process brings out the nutty flavor and ensures that the besan is cooked through without burning. Patience is key here.
Consistent Stirring: Continuously stir the besan to avoid lumps and ensure even roasting. It can take a bit of effort, but it's worth it for a smooth texture.
One-String Sugar Syrup: When making the sugar syrup, aim for a one-string consistency. This ensures that the Magas has the right texture. Be careful not to overcook it into a thicker consistency.
Adding Nuts: Chopped nuts not only add flavor but also a delightful crunch. You can use almonds, cashews, or any nuts you prefer. You can also lightly roast the nuts before adding for extra flavor.
Aromatic Cardamom: Cardamom powder adds a lovely aroma and flavor. Freshly ground cardamom seeds are best, but you can use store-bought powder as well.
Grease the Tray/Plate: Before transferring the Magas mixture to a plate or tray, grease it with a little ghee. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to cut into pieces.
Cool Completely: Allow the Magas to cool completely at room temperature before cutting it into pieces. It will firm up as it cools.
Cut Neatly: For neat and uniform pieces, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. This prevents the Magas from sticking to the knife.
Store Properly: Store any leftover Magas in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for several days. Avoid refrigeration, as it can change the texture.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you're looking to make Magas (Besan Barfi) and need ingredient substitutes or alternatives, here are some options:

Ghee (Clarified Butter): Substitute with unsalted butter if you don't have ghee. While it won't have the exact same flavor, it will still work. For a vegan alternative, use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
Chickpea Flour (Besan): If you can't find chickpea flour, you can use regular wheat flour, although the flavor and texture will be different. You can also experiment with other gluten-free flours like rice flour or almond flour, but be aware that this will significantly change the taste and texture.
Sugar: You can replace regular granulated sugar with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar, jaggery, or brown sugar. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly.
Cardamom Powder: If you don't have cardamom powder, you can use a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a different but still delightful flavor.
Nuts: Use any nuts of your choice or omit them if you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version.