Kyrgyz Jansak
Jansak is a traditional Kyrgyz sweet candy made from clarified butter (ghee), crushed nuts (typically walnuts), and honey. It's a simple yet rich dessert, often prepared for special occasions or served with tea. Its ingredients reflect the natural bounty of Kyrgyzstan, with nuts and honey being readily available.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Clarified butter (ghee)
- 700 g Walnuts, shelled and crushed
- 700 g Honey
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using large walnuts, peel and crush them into smaller pieces. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Crushing the nuts ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the candy. - 2
Heat the clarified butter (ghee) in a dry frying pan over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Be careful not to let it boil.
💡 Tip: Heating the ghee until it smokes helps to achieve the right consistency and flavor. - 3
Pour the hot ghee into a shallow bowl.
💡 Tip: Using a shallow bowl makes it easier to mix the ingredients. - 4
Add the crushed walnuts to the hot ghee and stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure the nuts are thoroughly coated with the ghee. - 5
Let the mixture cool slightly, then add the honey and stir again until well combined.
💡 Tip: Adding honey while the mixture is still warm helps it to incorporate smoothly. - 6
The jansak can be eaten as is, or you can spoon portions into molds (like small candy molds or even ice cube trays) and let them sit until they have fully solidified.
💡 Tip: Allowing the jansak to solidify in molds creates individual candies.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Jansak is often recommended as a remedy for exhaustion, taken in tablespoon doses on an empty stomach.
- ✓The quality of the ghee, nuts, and honey will significantly impact the final flavor.
- ✓Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Other nuts like almonds or pistachios can be used instead of walnuts.
- A pinch of cardamom or cinnamon can be added for extra flavor.