Saffron Fig Squares

Preparation Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 40 to 50 minutes

Makes about 16 to 18 squares

Ingredients

• Dried Fig – 12 to 15 dried soaked in warm water for about 3 to 4 hours  

• Cashews – 1 cup soaked in warm water for about an hour

• Milk Powder – ½ cup

• Sugar – 3 to 4 tbsp

• Saffron strands – 10 to 12 strands

• Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp

• Wheat Germ – 2 tsp (optional)

• Crushed Pistachios and Sliced Almonds for Garnish

• Edible Silver Foil (optional)

Method

1. In a blender, puree the figs and cashews into a smooth paste. Add about 1/2 cup of water if needed, to blend.

2. In a medium sized skillet, add the pureed mixture and cook over low flame until all the water has evaporated.

3. Add sugar, saffron and cardamom powder. Continue to cook until the mixture comes together forming a ball and begins to leave oil. 

4. Grease a shallow dish with butter. Put the mixture in the dish and gently and evenly spread the mixture, about ½” thick.

5. Garnish it with coarsely crushed pistachios and almonds. I also used some silver foil, cos I had it and wanted my squares to look pretty!

6. Refrigerate for about 2 to 3 hours. Cut into 1” squares and enjoy!

Notes:

1. I don’t like my squares extra sweet, hence I use about 3 to 4 tbsps of sugar. However, if you prefer sweeter squares, just increase the quantity of sugar to about 5 to 6 tbsps.

2. Squares can be stored in the refrigerator for about 10 to 12 days.

3. They can be frozen too for about a month or two, to be consumed at a later time! Just take them out of the freezer and thaw them overnight in your refrigerator.

4. Have them as a sweet snack or you can serve them as a traditional Indian dessert.