Chakka varatti Recipe

Chakka varatti otherwise known as jackfruit preserve is a very very traditional & authentic sweet that is made in the homes in kerala. "chakka" means jackfruit & "varatti" means cooking until the mixture becomes dry without any water content in it. This is usually made when jackfruits are seasonal & in abundance in each & every home. This is prepared & then stored for later use. It can used upto a year if preserved properly. It is made by deseeding the jackfruit bulbs & then cooked & puréed & mixed with jaggery syrup & ghee & cooked on a low flame till it becomes dry & forms a lump. It takes time to do it, so you need to be patient but it is really worth it. This recipe comes from my grandmother's kitchen. This is a very authentic way of preparing the varatti. I have seen my grandma cooking this on a big pot & stirring it gently adding generous amount of ghee. Later she distributes it to all the children & grand children.