Walnut Kelawo (Kilao)- Walnuts dipped in Honey & Mulberry Juice

Description

What is Kelawo (Kilao dry fruit)?

Walnut Kelawo (کیلاو), also spelled Kilao, is a beloved traditional delicacy from the Hunza and Punial Valleys. This unique, naturally sweet treat is made by repeatedly dipping walnut halves into a thickened blend of honey, mulberry, and grape juice, giving it a rich, chewy coating.

The process begins with fresh walnuts carefully sewn onto a thread by hand and sun-dried to achieve the perfect crunch. Once dried, they are dipped into a silky, chocolate-like paste made from mulberries, grapes, honey, and wheat flour, forming Kelawo’s signature texture and taste.

Often referred to as “Hunza Candy,” some also call it “Hunza Chocolate” due to its smooth, indulgent coating. However, since Kelawo contains no cocoa, it is not a chocolate but rather a naturally sweet, nutrient-rich candy.

Here is Walnut Kelawo Preparation:

The Origin of Kelawo

Kelawo traces its roots back 1000 years to what is now known as Puniyal Valley, a region renowned for winemaking since the Middle Ages. Every autumn, the valley experienced a rich harvest of grapes, mulberries, and nuts, leading to the invention of Kelawo as a method to preserve surplus produce for the harsh Karakorum winters.

Thanks to its high nutritional value and naturally long shelf life, Kelawo became an essential source of energy and endurance for warriors and travelers along the Silk Route. It provided sustained nourishment, making it a prized food among those undertaking long, demanding journeys.

Illustration of Traditional Kelawo (Kilao) in Puniyal & Hunza Valley 1000 years ago.

Kelawo in Modern Times

Today, Kelawo remains the most popular sweet snack in Gilgit-Baltistan. However, due to rising demand, much of the Kelawo available in markets is no longer made using the authentic, time-honored Puniyali methods.

At Hunza Foodways, we take pride in preserving the original, handcrafted tradition of Kelawo, ensuring that every bite delivers the true taste of history, heritage, and natural goodness.

A Seasonal Delight & A Perfect Gift

Kelawo is freshly prepared between March and November, when the nuts are at their peak freshness. It can be enjoyed as a snack, served as a dessert, or shared during special occasions such as New Year, Eid, and Navroz celebrations. It also makes a thoughtful, premium gift and pairs beautifully with coffee or Wild Thyme (Tumuru) Tea.

Available in Three Delicious Varieties:

Walnut Kelawo: The classic and most popular version
Almond Kelawo: A delightful nutty variation made with organic Almond kernels
Apricot Kelawo: A unique fruity twist made with sweet Apricot kernels

Benefits of Walnut Kelawo – Kilao

Walnut Kelawo is a nutrient-dense powerhouse, rich in essential fatty acids and proteins. It is known to support blood circulation, improve hemoglobin levels, and help reduce cholesterol.

The molasses from grapes and mulberries used in Kelawo is naturally high in iron, making it beneficial for overall health. Research suggests that mulberries may help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and prevent fatty liver disease. According to Healthline, mulberries also reduce oxidative stress, which may lower the risk of cancer. [s]

Since grape juice is a key ingredient in Hunza Candy, it adds heart-protective benefits. Compounds found in grapes may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. Both grapes and mulberries are packed with antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds that protect against chronic health conditions. Another super food that is also good for metabolism and boosting immunity is Pomegranate Molasses.

The Walnuts We Use

Walnuts are an excellent natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, fiber, and protein, making them an ideal healthy snack for a well-balanced diet.

At Hunza Foodways, we use organic, naturally grown walnuts sourced from the pristine valleys of Hunza and Gilgit-Baltistan. Cultivated using traditional farming methods, these walnuts have a superior taste and quality compared to regular varieties.

We take pride in crafting Hunza Candy from these premium walnuts, and we’re confident that you’ll love its authentic taste and nutritional benefits, InshaAllah.

Actual color may slightly vary, due to camera/screens

Ingredients of Walnut Kelawo – Kilao

Walnut halves, Mulberry Pulp, Grapes Juice, Wheat Flour, Honey.

Shelf Life

Kelawo is freshest when consumed within 10-20 days of production. You can also refrigerate to avoid worms (organic nuts are prone to worms in warm temperatures and humidity) but do not deep freeze. We do include Silica gel desiccant with the package, which can also help preserve Kelawo.

Allergen Information

The product contains walnuts and gluten.

Hunza Foodways publishes daily offers, news, and updates on its Facebook and Instagram pages; follow along and get exciting offers.

All health content on HunzaFoodways.com is provided for general information only and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your doctor or any other health care professional. Unless otherwise stated, all products are grown in natural environments without using preservatives or artificial flavours, but no product is lab-tested and certified organic. Read the medical disclaimer.