Bal Mithai

About the Dish

Bal Mithai is the most iconic sweet of the Kumaon region, especially Almora. It is a brown chocolate-like fudge made with roasted Khoya (dried whole milk) and coated with white sugar balls. Its chewy texture and rich caramelized flavor make it a favorite souvenir.

Ingredients

• 1 kg Khoya (Mawa)
• 500g Sugar (for Khoya)
• 1/2 cup Cocoa powder or Chocolate color (Optional, traditional version uses caramelized sugar)
• 1 tbsp Ghee
• 1/2 cup Sugar balls (for coating)
• Water as needed

Instructions

1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan and add the Khoya. Roast it on low flame, stirring continuously.
2. Add sugar and keep stirring. The mixture will start to melt and then thicken again.
3. Continue roasting until the Khoya turns dark brown (chocolate color). This takes time and patience. The sugar caramelizes to give the color.
4. Add ghee and mix well for a glossy finish.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased tray and let it set for 4-5 hours.
6. Once set, cut into rectangular pieces.
7. Dip the pieces in sugar syrup lightly and roll them in the white sugar balls to coat them completely.