Chakka Varatti / Jackfruit Preserve ~ Day 128

Chakka (jackfruit) varatti is a traditional kerala sweet which can be used to make chakka pradaman (Jackfruit payasam) or Ella Ada (Stuffed and steamed rice flour cakes in banana leaf).   

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Yields: 1 cup

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ingredients:

Ripe Jackfruit - 2 cups, seeded and chopped finely

Powdered jaggery - 1 and 1/2 cups to 2 cups 

Ghee / clarified butter - 3 tbsp

Water - 3/4 cup

Method:

1. Cook the jackfruit in 3/4 cup water until soft.  Mash it well with a wooden spoon.  Add the powdered jaggery and cook on low heat until the jaggery melts, stirring constantly.  
2. Cook until the mixture turns thick in consistency.  Add the ghee little at a time and stir to combine.  Keep cooking until the mixture starts to leave the sides, about 30 minutes.  Remove from the heat.
3. Cool completely, store in a glass jar and refrigirate.