Step 1: Soak the Chana Dal

Take 2 cups of chana dal in a bowl, wash it thoroughly, and soak it in water for 2-3 hours.

Step 2: Cook the Dal

After soaking, drain the dal and transfer it to a pan. Add 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of water.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Cook

To the pan, add a pinch of salt, 1 small cinnamon stick, and 2 cardamoms. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the dal becomes completely soft and tender.

Step 4: Cool and Blend

Once the dal is cooked, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down completely. Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender, add 1/2 cup of milk, and blend until you get a very smooth paste.

Step 5: Roast the Dal Paste

In a clean, heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1/3 cup of ghee. Add the blended dal paste to the hot ghee.

Step 6: Sauté until Thick

Cook the paste on low heat, stirring continuously to prevent it from sticking and burning. Roast for 10-15 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, aromatic, and starts to leave the sides of the pan.

Step 7: Add Sugar

Once the paste is well-roasted, add 1 & 1/2 cups of sugar and mix it in thoroughly.

Step 8: Final Cooking

Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens again into a single mass.

Step 9: Set the Barfi

Grease a tray or mold with oil. Pour the prepared hot mixture into the tray and spread it evenly using a spatula to create a flat surface.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow the mixture to cool down and set completely for about 1 hour at room temperature. Once set, use a knife to cut it into diamond or square shapes.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the cut pieces by placing a raisin in the center of each one. Carefully separate the pieces and serve.

• Soak the dal for at least 2-3 hours to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes soft.

• Blend the cooked dal mixture until completely smooth to avoid a grainy texture in the final dessert.

• Roast the dal paste on low heat, stirring continuously, to develop a rich, nutty aroma and prevent it from burning.

• Grease the setting tray well with oil or ghee to ensure the barfi can be removed easily without breaking.

• Add chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or cashews to the mixture before setting for extra texture and flavor.

• Incorporate a few strands of saffron soaked in warm milk for a beautiful color and aroma.

• Use jaggery instead of sugar for a more traditional and earthy sweetness.