Treet of Energy and Stamina
It’s widely accepted fact in Punjab that Panjeeri helps fight fatigue, aches and pains because it is believed to generate body heat, helps lubricate joints, ease body aches, and soothe tight muscles. It is considered mid day dessert that gives a ton of energy and stamina.
As we learn from our ancestor’s knowledge, this fact of Panjeeri was passed down from generations to generation, a traditional food in most Indian and Pakistani household that contributes to the human health. The recipe includes super foods such as nuts, butter oil, whole wheat, edible gum and jaggery. The preparation techniques may differ from family to family or region to region but ingredients are mostly common with little additions or subtraction. In general all ingredients are roasted and blended and may be formed together.
How to Prepare
In a heavy bottomed pan, heat ghee and then shallow fry everything separately except wheat flour and jaggery. Make sure not to over roast the nuts as that will make it taste bitter. After frying everything, grind it to a coarse format, it’s better not to use grinder machine that would make it a fine powder, rather use hand grinding technique.
Next roast the whole wheat or semolina flour (durum wheat) which is higher in crabs than whole wheat flour. Whole wheat refers to the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ and endosperm. Roast flour over medium heat till the colour of the flour changes to golden brown and the ghee starts separating. Turn down the flame at this point and sprinkle in powdered gum crystals. Keep stirring the mixture until the crystals puff up and the spluttering stops.
Next add crushed jaggery powder to the roasted flour and stir the whole mixture until all the ingredients are well blended. Turn off the flame but keep on stirring the mixture for another 5–10 minutes. Then add crushed nuts and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a large dish or tray and let cool.
Store in Airtight Jar
Panjeeri has a long shelf life of at least 30 days. You can refrigerate this nutrient rich mix for longer shelf life. Many home cooks add roasted and ground makhana or lotus seeds and magaz or melon seeds too. Serve with tea as a sweet energy treet.
