Credits: The Hosteller
Adventure
Written by
Aquib Nawab
Reviewed by
Shwetha Vasan
Lonavala, a scenic hill station in Maharashtra, is famous for its Chikki, a traditional sweet made from jaggery and nuts, creating an inseparable bond between the region and this delightful treat.
Credits: Unsplash
Credits: icc, Instagram
Located in the state of Maharashtra, India, Lonavala is a hill station that has been the hub of Chikki production for over a century. Here’s why!
Lonavala’s unique climate and geography is perfect for growing peanuts and producing high-quality jaggery, making it an ideal place for producing this sweet treat.
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The story of Lonavala Chikki dates back to the early 20th century when a few enterprising locals started making this sweet treat as a way to utilize the abundant jaggery and peanut production in the region.
Credits: maganlal_chikki_lonavala, Instagram
The traditional recipe of Lonavala Chikki involves a perfect blend of jaggery, peanuts, and ghee (clarified butter). The specific proportions of these ingredients and the cooking process are what set this Chikki apart from other Chikki varieties made in different regions.
Credits: Unsplash
Credits: Unsplash
Crafting Lonavala Chikki requires skill, patience, and expertise. Families and small industries use traditional methods: large cauldrons over open fires, precise temperature control, and careful folding of peanuts.
The 1960s to 1980s are often referred to as the golden era of Lonavala Chikki. During this time, the sweet treat became a cultural phenomenon, with Chikki makers perfecting their craft and experimenting with new flavors.
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As industrialization swept through India, the traditional Chikki-making process began to change. New machines and manufacturing techniques were introduced, making it possible to mass-produce Chikki.
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Despite industrialization, many traditional Chikki makers in Lonavala, have fiercely preserved the original recipe and techniques. Their dedication ensures the authentic taste of Lonavala Chikki remains unchanged.
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Lonavala Chikki has become an integral part of Indian culture, particularly in Maharashtra. It's often exchanged as a gift during festivals and special occasions, symbolizing love, care, and togetherness.
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In Lonavala, popular chikki shops like Maganlal Chikki and A1 Chikki attract visitors with their wide variety of flavors. Some popular chikki flavors include Peanut Chikki, Sesame (Til) Chikki, Dry Fruit Chikki, Coconut Chikki, and Chocolate Chikki.
Credits: maganlal_chikki_lonavala, Instagram
Visit Lonavala– Explore budget stay options!
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