Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
  • 2 tablespoons semolina (sooji)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or oil
  • A pinch of salt
  • Water (as needed to form the dough)
• For the Sugar Syrup:
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
  • A few saffron strands (optional)
• For Frying:
  • Ghee or oil (as needed for frying)

Instructions:

1. Making the Dough:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, semolina, sugar, baking powder, cardamom powder (if using), and a pinch of salt.
• Add the ghee or oil and rub it into the dry ingredients until it resembles breadcrumbs.
• Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead into a smooth dough. The dough should not be too soft or too hard.
• Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

2. Shaping the Shakar Para:

• Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a smooth ball.
• Roll each ball into a smooth, even sheet (about 1/8 inch thick) using a rolling pin.
• Cut the rolled dough into diamond or square shapes using a knife or pizza cutter.

3. Frying:

• Heat ghee or oil in a frying pan or deep fryer over medium heat.
• Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the cut dough pieces into the oil in small batches.
• Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so they cook evenly.
• Remove the fried Shakar Para and drain excess oil on paper towels.

4. Making the Sugar Syrup:

• In a small pan, combine sugar and water. Bring it to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
• Add cardamom powder and saffron (if using) and stir well. Remove from heat.

5. Coating with Sugar Syrup:

• Immediately pour the hot sugar syrup over the fried Shakar Para, tossing them gently to coat all the pieces.
• Let them cool and absorb the syrup for about 15-20 minutes.

6. Serve:

• Once cooled, the Shakar Para will become crisp and sweet. Store them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade Shakar Para! It makes for a perfect snack with tea or as a festive treat.

Shakar Para

Rating: 4/5

Preparation Time: 15 m
Cooking Time: 20 m
Total Time: 35 m