Authentic Sweet Shankarpali Recipe: How to Make this Delightful Indian Snack

Easy Sweet Shankarpali Recipe: A Traditional Indian Snack

Introduction: Exploring the Delights of Sweet Shankarpali

Shankarpali is a popular Indian snack that holds a special place in traditional festivities and celebrations. This delectable treat is made from a simple combination of flour, sugar, ghee (clarified butter), and sometimes flavored with cardamom or nutmeg. The dough is rolled out, cut into diamond or square shapes, and deep-fried until golden brown.

Shankarpali's crunchy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite among both children and adults. It is often enjoyed during festivals like Diwali, Eid, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Holi. The snack is known by different names in different regions of India - shakkarpara in North India, shakkarpare in Gujarat, and shankarpaada in Maharashtra.

Preparing this delightful snack at home is relatively straightforward. To make sweet shankarpali, one needs to combine the ingredients to form a smooth dough. The dough is then divided into small portions which are rolled out into thin sheets before being cut into desired shapes. These pieces are carefully deep-fried until they turn crispy and acquire an appealing golden color.

The end result is a batch of mouthwatering sweet shankarpalis that can be stored for several days when placed in an airtight container. Their versatility allows them to be enjoyed as a standalone snack or paired with tea or coffee during tea-time gatherings.

Not only does shankarpali offer an indulgent taste experience but it also holds cultural significance as it brings families together during festive occasions. Its popularity has made it widely available across local sweet shops all year round.

Overall, whether you're looking to relish the traditional flavors of Indian cuisine or simply want to try something new and delicious, sweet shankarpali makes for an excellent choice for any occasion!

Ingredients and Tools Required to Make Sweet Shankarpali

1.2 cups all-purpose flour
2.¼ cup semolina
3.½ teaspoon red chili powder
4.½ teaspoon turmeric powder
5.¼ teaspoon cumin powder
6.¼ teaspoon fennel seeds
7.Salt to taste
8.3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
9.¼ cup powdered sugar
10.Oil for frying

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Crispy Sweet Shankarpali

1.In a large bowl, combine flour, semolina, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, fennel seeds, and salt.
2.Add ghee and mix well using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3.Gradually add water and knead the dough until it is smooth and firm.
4.Rest the dough for 15 minutes, covering it with a damp cloth.
5.Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin rectangular sheet.
6.Cut the sheets into diamond or square-shaped pieces.
7.Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the Shankarpali in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy.
8.Drain the excess oil and allow them to cool.
9.Sprinkle powdered sugar over the Shankarpali and toss gently to evenly coat them.
10.Allow them to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.

Tips and Variations for Perfecting Your Sweet Shankaraplis Every Time

Shankarpali, also known as shakkarpara, is a popular sweet snack in Indian cuisine. It is a crispy and delicious treat that is commonly made during festive occasions like Diwali and Holi. If you are looking to try your hand at making this delectable snack, here are some tips and variations to help you create the perfect sweet shankarpalis.

1. Traditional Shankarpali Recipe:

- Start by combining all-purpose flour (maida), semolina (sooji), sugar, ghee or butter, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl.

- Knead the mixture into a firm dough using water.

- Roll out the dough into a flat sheet and cut it into diamond or square-shaped pieces.

- Deep fry the shankarpalis until they turn golden brown and crispy.

- Allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight container.

2. Tips for Perfect Shankarpalis:

- Ensure that the dough is not too soft or too hard. It should be firm enough to roll out easily without sticking to the surface.

- Make sure to roll out the dough evenly so that the shankarpalis cook uniformly.

- Fry them on medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring they are cooked through.

- Drain excess oil from the fried shankarpalis using paper towels before storing them.

3. Variations of Sweet Shankarpalis:

- Chocolate Shankarpali: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the dough for a chocolatey twist on this traditional snack.

- Nutty Shankarpali: Mix chopped nuts like almonds, cashews, or pistachios into the dough for added crunchiness and flavor.

- Cardamom-infused Shankarpali: Increase or adjust the amount of cardamom powder according to your preference for a stronger aromatic taste.

- Jaggery Shankarpali: Replace sugar with powdered jaggery for a healthier alternative. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste.

These tips and variations will help you experiment with different flavors while maintaining the classic taste of sweet shankarpalis. Enjoy this delightful snack with a cup of tea or serve it as an offering during festive celebrations.

Celebrate Festivals or Enjoy Tea Time with Homemade Sweet Shankaraplis!

India is known for its rich variety of snacks, especially during festivals and tea time. Sweet snacks are particularly popular choices, with a wide range of options to satisfy one's cravings. Whether it's traditional sweets like jalebi, ladoo, or gulab jamun, or modern favorites like cupcakes and cookies with an Indian twist, there is something for everyone to enjoy during these special occasions. These delectable treats not only bring joy and happiness but also reflect the diversity and culinary heritage of India. So indulge in these delightful sweet snacks as you celebrate festivals or unwind during tea time.