Shakkarpare/ शक्करपारे
Shakkarpare is Also Known as Sweet Crispy Fried Pastry
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About Shakkarpare
Shakkarpare is a beloved Indian snack, often enjoyed during festive occasions, celebrations, or simply as an afternoon treat. These golden, crispy bites are made from simple ingredients such as all-purpose flour (maida), ghee (clarified butter), and sugar, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. This timeless recipe, with its sweet, crispy exterior and soft, melt-in-the-mouth center, is perfect for any time of the year, though it is especially popular during festivals like Diwali and Holi.
As the name suggests, Shakkarpare translates to "sweet fried pieces," and that is exactly what this dish offers – an indulgent, slightly sweet, and crispy snack that is impossible to resist. The dough for Shakkarpare is typically rolled out, cut into diamond shapes, and fried to a golden perfection, before being generously coated with sugar syrup. The resulting treat is both crunchy and lightly sweet, making it a delightful contrast of flavors and textures in every bite.
One of the best features of Shakkarpare is its versatility. While the traditional recipe calls for basic ingredients like flour, sugar, ghee, and a hint of cardamom powder, this dish can easily be customized to suit individual preferences. Some variations incorporate sesame seeds for added texture, while others might use flavored syrups, such as rose or saffron syrup, to enhance the aroma. You can even experiment with different shapes – the traditional diamond shape or perhaps a fun star or circle shape to appeal to children. Whether served with a cup of chai or enjoyed on its own, Shakkarpare always adds a touch of sweetness to any moment.
This dish not only pleases the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Ghee, a key ingredient in Shakkarpare, is known for its rich content of healthy fats and antioxidants. It also boosts immunity and aids in digestion. The sugar content, though sweet, can provide a quick energy boost, making it an ideal snack for busy afternoons or a post-meal treat. The cardamom in the recipe adds a subtle aromatic flavor, as well as anti-inflammatory properties.
The ideal season for making and enjoying Shakkarpare is during the cooler months, especially during the winter when you can savor the warmth of freshly fried pieces. However, this dish’s delightful crunch and sweet, aromatic flavor make it suitable for year-round consumption. Whether you’re preparing it for a special celebration or simply for an evening snack, it is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Shakkarpare is an easy-to-make snack that fits perfectly into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. It is the perfect combination of indulgence and nostalgia, offering a way to share the flavors of India with family and friends. With its customizable variations and simple ingredients, this traditional Indian treat is sure to become a favorite in your regular meal rotation, especially when you need a comforting yet sweet bite that can be enjoyed alongside tea or as an on-the-go snack.
So, next time you’re craving something crunchy and sweet, why not make a batch of Shakkarpare? It’s easy, flavorful, and a true testament to the comfort food traditions of India!
Recipe of Home Cooked Shakkarpare/ शक्करपारे
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for making Shakkarpare at Home.
Preparation of Dough: Begin by preparing the dough for the Shakkarpare. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually add in the melted ghee, working it into the flour using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process will ensure that the ghee is evenly distributed throughout the flour, making the final treat crispy. Once the ghee is well incorporated, add a little water at a time to form a soft, smooth dough. Be careful not to add too much water, as you want the dough to be firm but pliable. Knead the dough for a few minutes to ensure it's smooth and well-formed. Once done, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15 minutes, allowing it to set. (Time taken: 15 minutes)
Rolling Out the Dough: After the dough has rested, it's time to roll it out. Place the dough on a clean, flat surface and dust it lightly with some flour to prevent sticking. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a thin, even sheet. The thickness of the sheet should be about 1/8 inch. It's important to keep the dough even to ensure uniform cooking later. If you find the dough sticking, dust it with a little more flour. Once rolled out, use a knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into diamond or square shapes. You can also get creative with other shapes if you wish. (Time taken: 10 minutes)
Heating the Oil: While preparing the dough and cutting it into shapes, it's time to heat the oil for frying. Take a deep frying pan and fill it with oil, making sure there's enough to submerge the Shakkarpare. Heat the oil over medium heat, allowing it to come to the right temperature. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it rises to the surface immediately and starts to sizzle, the oil is hot enough. If it sinks, the oil needs more time to heat up. Be sure to keep the temperature at a medium heat to avoid burning the dough. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Frying the Shakkarpare: Carefully drop the cut pieces of dough into the hot oil, a few at a time. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy pieces. Fry them in batches, turning them occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 5-6 minutes per batch. Keep an eye on the temperature, adjusting the flame as necessary to ensure a consistent fry. Once they are perfectly golden and crisp, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. (Time taken: 15 minutes)
Preparing the Sugar Syrup: While the Shakkarpare are frying, prepare the sugar syrup to coat the crispy pieces. In a separate pan, combine sugar and water and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Once the syrup reaches a slightly sticky consistency, remove it from the heat. This syrup will coat the Shakkarpare and give them their signature sweet glaze. If desired, you can add a hint of cardamom or saffron to the syrup for added flavor. (Time taken: 5 minutes)
Coating the Shakkarpare: Once the Shakkarpare are fried and the sugar syrup is ready, it's time to coat them. Take the fried pieces and gently drop them into the warm syrup, one batch at a time. Allow the syrup to soak into the crispy pieces for a few seconds, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Once coated, remove the Shakkarpare from the syrup and place them on a plate to cool and set. As they cool, the sugar will harden slightly, giving the Shakkarpare a beautiful glossy finish. (Time taken: 10 minutes)
Serving: Once the Shakkarpare have cooled and the syrup has set, they're ready to serve. You can enjoy them immediately or store them in an airtight container for later. These crispy, sweet delights are perfect for any occasion or as a simple treat with your afternoon tea. They can also be shared with friends and family, making them a delightful addition to any gathering. (Time taken: 5 minutes)