Chandra Kaantalu

1 cup split yellow moong dal
1 1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup fresh grated coconut
1/4 cup chopped cashewnuts
1 tsp cardamom powder
pinch of salt (optional)
oil for deep frying

Preparation:

Soak moong dal for an hour, drain and grind to a fine paste adding a 3-4 tbsps of water. You can even grind it without adding any water. Heat a heavy bottomed vessel and add the sugar, the ground dal paste, grated coconut, cashewnuts and mix well. You will find that the sugar melts and the mixture begins to form bubbles while cooking. Cook this mixture on low heat, stirring continuously till it forms into a thick lump. Remove from heat and mix cardamom powder and pinch of salt.Immediately transfer the mixture on to a wet cloth and spread the cooked mixture over it. Using a flat laddle which has been oiled and gently spread the mixture to form 1/2″ layer and cool. Cut into desired shape and separate the pieces very carefully lest they break and keep aside. Heat oil in a wide heavy bottomed vessel and deep fry the squares till golden brown. You can deep fry a batch of six to eight depending on the size of the vessel.Serve warm or cold. Store in an air tight container as they last for at least 4-5 days.