Gashaato

Gashaato (Kashata) is a famous Swahili sweet commonly sold and enjoyed in most of East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda). It sometimes occurs in other parts of Africa, such as Yaoundé, Cameroon. These sugary snacks are made with grated fresh coconut or peanuts or a combination of the two. Some people use food dyes to make it more appealing, especially when it is made only with coconut. Use peanuts, a little grated coconut, and coconut milk for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

2 cups roasted peanuts shells and skin peeled lightly chopped
1/2 cup coconut milk water
1/2 cup coconut flakes optional
1/2 teaspoon of each cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg spice
1 3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Spray about an 8-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
In a large pan, combine granulated sugar, coconut milk, cardamom, and salt.
Cook over medium-high, stirring until all the sugar has dissolved. Stop stirring when the sugar has dissolved. You can swirl the pan to prevent the mixture from burning. (Stirring helps to form crystals you don't want in the process).
Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and the sugar starts to caramelize - about 10 minutes or more, depending on the stove. You can use a spoon to test the consistency.
Finally, add the peanuts and coconut, quickly mixing until all ingredients have been completely combined. Remove immediately and spread the mixture on the prepared pan.
Allow to cool completely and then cut into pieces with a sharp knife. Store in airtight packaging.