Mohanthal Recipe for Diwali: A Traditional Indian Sweet

Mohanthal is a traditional Gujarati and Rajasthani sweet made from gram flour (besan), ghee, and sugar syrup. It’s commonly prepared during festive occasions, especially Diwali, and has a rich, fudgy texture with the aroma of cardamom and saffron. This Mohanthal recipe is perfect for those looking to recreate a festive, mouth-watering dessert at home. Let’s dive into the step-by-step method of making this irresistible sweet for your Diwali celebrations!

Why is it called “Mohanthal”?

The name “Mohanthal” is believed to have originated from the word “Mohan,” which refers to Lord Krishna, and “thal,” meaning plate. Traditionally, this sweet is offered to deities in temples and during special occasions, making it an integral part of religious ceremonies, especially during Diwali.

How should Mohanthal Taste?

Mohanthal has a rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture with a balanced sweetness. The nuttiness of roasted gram flour combined with the creaminess of ghee and the delicate flavor of saffron and cardamom creates a divine taste experience. Its crumbly yet smooth texture makes each bite delightful.

How to Make Mohanthal Super Yummy or Perfect?

Roast the gram flour slowly: The key to a perfectly textured Mohanthal is in the roasting of the gram flour. Roast it on a medium flame, ensuring it doesn’t burn but attains a golden-brown hue.
Get the sugar syrup right: Achieving the one-string consistency for the syrup is essential. It gives the Mohanthal its rich, fudgy texture. Too thick or too thin syrup can affect the final result.
Use fresh ghee: The quality of ghee enhances the overall flavor of Mohanthal. Make sure to use pure ghee for an authentic taste.

Mohanthal Recipe

Mohanthal is a traditional Gujarati and Rajasthani sweet made from gram flour (besan), ghee, and sugar syrup. It’s commonly prepared during festive occasions, especially Diwali, and has a rich, fudgy texture with the aroma of cardamom and saffron. This Mohanthal recipe is perfect for those looking to recreate a festive, mouth-watering dessert at home. Let's dive into the step-by-step method of making this irresistible sweet for your Diwali celebrations!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Course Dessert

Cuisine Gujarati, Indian

Servings 12 pieces

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

Heavy-bottomed pan
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Spatula
Tray or dish for setting

Ingredients

2 cups gram flour (besan)
1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
2 tbsp chopped almonds and pistachios (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the gram flour mixture:
Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat. Add the gram flour and roast it until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This process takes about 12-15 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Once roasted, remove from heat and set aside.
Make sugar syrup:
In a separate saucepan, add water and sugar. Cook on medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup reaches a one-string consistency (this should take around 7-10 minutes). Add saffron strands and cardamom powder to the syrup and stir well.
Mix the ingredients:
Slowly pour the sugar syrup into the roasted gram flour while stirring continuously. Ensure there are no lumps, and the mixture becomes smooth. Add milk and continue to cook the mixture until it thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
Set the Mohanthal:
Once the mixture thickens, transfer it to a greased tray or dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula and smoothen the surface. Garnish with chopped almonds and pistachios.
Cool and cut:
Allow the Mohanthal to cool completely at room temperature. Once set, cut it into squares or diamond shapes. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

You can store Mohanthal in an airtight container for up to a week.
For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of khoya (milk solids) to the gram flour mixture while roasting.

Conclusion

Mohanthal is an indulgent dessert that brings the richness of Indian sweets to your home, especially during Diwali. With its delightful texture and balanced sweetness, it’s perfect for satisfying your festive cravings. The key to making the best Mohanthal lies in mastering the roasting of gram flour and getting the sugar syrup consistency right. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a staple in your Diwali celebrations.