Zanzibar (Kashata

Zanzibar Kashata (snacks or deserts)

Something between candy and cookie, Eastern Africa's Kashata are a popular snack of Swahili origin. Kashata are usually made with peanuts or grated coconut, or both. Kashata are made on the stove or over a fire, not in an oven like European biscuits or American cookies.

Ingredients

• two cups sugar
• Coconut and/or Peanuts
• Option1: - two cups fresh or moist grated coconut (or two cups of dried grated coconut moistened with a few tablespoons of milk or water)
• Option2: - two cups of roasted peanuts, shells and skins removed, briefly heated in a lightly oiled skillet
• Option3: - a mixture of both coconut and peanuts
• one-half teaspoon ground cinnamon or cardamom
• a pinch of salt
• one-half cup wheat flour (optional)

Method

• In a hot skillet, heat the sugar until it melts and just begins to brown.
• Reduce heat and quickly add all other ingredients, stirring well as each ingredient is added. When all ingredients have been added to the mixture, continue stirring for about a minute, making sure everything is well mixed.
• Scoop the mixture into a pan that has been lightly greased or lined with waxed paper. Let rest for a few minutes. Cut into squares or diamonds while still warm. Let cool and serve.

Bon Apetite.

Didah