Chef's: Did You Know ...

Pumpkin Seeds

A ‘power pack’ seed full of healthy benefits, they are rich in Amino acids, Iron, Protein, Phytosterols and immune-boosting Zinc.

The rich source of essential fatty acids found in pumpkin seeds also helps to maintain healthy blood vessels, as do the plant compounds called Phytosterols.

They also contain Phytoestrogens, plant chemicals with a structure rather like the Hormone Oestrogen, which have been found to help with balancing women’s Hormones, and also in helping to prevent heart disease.

Well, that’s the P’s dealt with, now for an interesting T.Tryptophan, an essential Amino acid. Tryptophan has the ability to increase brain levels of Serotonin, a so-called happy chemical which can help fight depression.
Summary of Benefits

Pumpkin Seeds Immune-boosting Zincs Healthy unsaturated fats, good for lowering Cholesterol, Tryptophan and Phytosterols.
Phytoestrogens for hormone balancing and reducing heart risk

Kashata ...

Sugar ~ 380g
Coconut (Fresh) Desiccated ~ 350g
Peanuts (Roasted & Grounded) Optional
Ground Cinnamon ~ ½ tsp
Cardamom ~ ½ tsp
Salt ~ Pinch
Flour ~ 100g Optional
Ghee ~ 3 tbsp
Coconut Milk ~ 1 Cup
Food Colouring ~ Optional (or add a Pinch of Saffron)

Method: On medium fire, In a large non-stick saucepan, add Ghee and add Coconut and stir continously, until the smell of Coconut fills the rooms, add all the ingredients and stir well until the sugar has melted completely.
On a lightly greased tray, pour the mixture and spread evenly to ¼ to ½ inch and allow to cool and rest for a few minutes. Cut to shape preferred whilst still warm and allow to set and cool down completely.
Enjoy.

A very popular Swahili snack served with strong black coffee.
Served all over East Africa.

Chef’s Tip: Peanuts are optional due to allergies now days.
Try this recipe with a hint of fresh pureed Ginger.