Agra Petha Crystallised Ash Gourd Sweet Transparent Candy

Method

1. 1

   Prepare the ash gourd: peel and deseed. Cut into uniform 5 cm chunks.

2. 2

   Poke each piece all over with a fork or skewer — this allows the syrup to penetrate.

3. 3

   Soak the pieces in water with alum dissolved in it for 30 minutes. Drain. Wash thoroughly.

4. 4

   Boil the ash gourd pieces in plain water for 8 to 10 minutes until just beginning to soften. Drain.

5. 5

   Make the syrup: dissolve sugar in 4 cups water.

6. 6

   Bring to a boil. Add saffron water.

7. 7

   Add the parboiled ash gourd pieces to the hot syrup.

8. 8

   Cook on medium, gently turning occasionally, for 40 to 45 minutes until the pieces have absorbed the syrup and turned completely transparent.

9. 9

   Add rose water. Stir gently.

10. 10

    Remove from syrup. Cool on a wire rack until the surface dries and crystallises to a slightly grainy, glossy finish.