Coconut Barfi Recipe – Traditional Indian Sweet Using Raw Coconut & Milk
Coconut Barfi is a traditional Indian dessert made from raw (green) coconut, milk, and sugar. This melt-in-your-mouth sweet is rich, aromatic, and perfect for festivals like Diwali, Holi, or any family celebration. Its smooth texture and nutty flavor make it a favorite across generations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw (green) coconut, finely ground
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup mixed dry fruits, finely chopped (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
- 1 teaspoon arrowroot
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi)
Instructions
- Finely grind the raw coconut in a mixer and set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the flame to medium and continue to stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- When the milk reduces to about half, add the ground coconut and mix thoroughly.
- Dissolve arrowroot in 2 tablespoons of water and add it slowly to the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- As the mixture thickens, add sugar, dry fruits, and cardamom powder. Mix well.
- Cook the mixture until all the milk evaporates and it becomes thick and pasty.
- Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Grease a plate or tray with ghee and spread the warm mixture evenly.
- Place the tray in the refrigerator to set. Once firm, cut into desired shapes.
- Serve and enjoy this delicious, nutrient-rich coconut barfi.
Chef’s Tips
- Saffron flavor: Add a few saffron strands for a royal taste and color.
- Khoya barfi: Add ½ cup of khoya for a richer, creamier barfi.
- Sugar substitute: Use jaggery instead of sugar for a more rustic flavor.
- Nut-Free: Skip the dry fruits for a simpler version.