Homemade Iranian Pashmak Recipe: Easy and Without a Machine
Pashmak recipe is a famous Iranian sweet often served at parties. It has a soft texture, similar to delicate cotton threads. This delicious treat is made from sugar and is also available ready-made in stores. In this article, we will teach you the easiest way to make Iranian Pashmak with just a few simple ingredients so that you can prepare it easily at home.
What is Pashmak?
Pashmak is a delicious Iranian confection that melts in your mouth and comes in different flavors, including coconut, saffron, vanilla, and various fruit flavors. This treat is usually made with special machines, but a homemade version can be made by hand. Pashmak has a soft, cotton-like texture and is served at parties or enjoyed as a snack. Iran also has other popular snacks such as Ghare ghoroot, Lavashak (fruit leather), and Baslogh, whose tangy taste is as beloved as many sweets.
Ingredients for Making Homemade Iranian Cotton Candy (Pashmak)
For this recipe, you can use flavorings such as cocoa powder, brewed saffron, cardamom powder, or vanilla powder. Here, we are using vanilla.
|
sugar |
2 cups |
| water | 1 cup |
| glucose or light corn syrup | 1 cup |
| flour | 1 cup all-purpose |
| vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| vanilla powder | ½ teaspoon |
How to Make Homemade Iranian Cotton Candy (pashmak)
Step 1
Place a heavy, high-sided saucepan over heat and add the sugar, water, and glucose. Stir until the sugar and glucose dissolve. Once the mixture comes to a boil, stop stirring. Let it cook until some of the water evaporates, then remove from heat.
Step 2
Lightly grease a large flat surface, such as a tray, and pour the thick syrup onto it. Shape the syrup into a large ring and let it cool for a few minutes until it becomes elastic.
Step 3
In a dry pan, roast the flour until the raw smell disappears. Allow it to cool completely. Dip the syrup ring into the flour and stretch it by hand. Sprinkle a little flour over it with each pull, repeating the process until thin strands form.
Step 4
To flavor the cotton candy, mix it with vanilla and continue stretching until evenly flavored, or mix the flavoring into the flour so it is absorbed more easily.
Golden Tips for Making Cotton Candy (Pashmak recipe)
- High heat will harden the mixture, while low heat will reduce elasticity—keep the temperature balanced.
- Roast the flour in advance to remove any raw smell.
- Cotton candy is better made in dry air; humidity affects its texture.
- Wear gloves, as the syrup is very hot at first.
- Quick and continuous hand movements are essential for creating fine strands.
Storing Homemade Cotton Candy (Pashmak)
- Store in an airtight container.
- Do not refrigerate, as moisture will ruin the texture.
- Consume within one week to keep it soft.
Benefits of Homemade Cotton Candy (Pashmak)
Although Pashmak is high in sugar and should be eaten in moderation, it has some benefits:
- Quick energy boost: Sugar increases energy levels quickly.
- Mood improvement: Moderate sugar intake releases serotonin in the brain, creating a sense of happiness.
- Source of carbohydrates: A quick source of carbs for athletes and those with high physical activity.
Disadvantages of Homemade Cotton Candy (pashmak)
While pashmak is a popular Iranian snack, excessive consumption carries risks:
- Increases blood sugar: Harmful for diabetics.
- Causes tooth decay: Brush your teeth after eating.
- Leads to weight gain: High in calories and should be eaten in moderation.
