Karanjiis a favorite Indian dessert prepared across the country, especially on the occasion of Diwali. In fact, it is synonymous with the festival itself, such is its following! Karanji is known by different names; it is called Gujiya in Gujarat and Karchikkai in Karnataka.
These are small sized fried pastries infused with the goodness of coconut and cardamom. The flaky layers are crispy with the coconut filling soft and sweet, a perfect contrast in texture, making the sweet dish rich in both flavors and textures.
Packing this for lunch? Make sure you carry it in an insulated lunch box with bag
Health Benefits
Desi ghee is a much healthier substitute and should be preferred over processed butter. It not only has a lower fat content but is a source of naturally occurring saturated fats which are good for health.
Ingredients
a pinch of salt
½ cup warm milk
2 tsp oil
¼ cup sooji (rawa)
1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
assorted nuts
¼ tsp cardamom powder
1 cup sugar — powdered
1 cup dry coconut — grated
oil for frying
2 tsp ghee
2 tsp rice flour
How To Make Karanji Recipe
- Heat the oil and add all-purpose flour, salt, and sooji in a bowl. Pour hot oil over the mixture. Mix well allowing it to become crumbly.
- Pour the warm milk over to form a dough of medium consistency. Cover the dough and let it rest undisturbed for half an hour.
- To prepare the filling, dry roast the sooji and poppy seeds separately until light brown. Addcoconut, sugar, dry fruits, and cardamom powder. Mix well.
- Knead the dough to make it as smooth as possible. Divide it into 3 equal parts and roll them into three thin rotis.
- Mix the ghee and rice flour and allow to turn creamy and smooth. Take one of the rotis and spread the rice flour mixture over it evenly. Place the second roti over it and spread a new layer of the rice flour mixture over it.
- Now place the third roti and roll it evenly to make it thinner. Spread some rice flour mixture again.
- Begin rolling the three rotis together and divide into three parts.
- Roll the dough balls like you would for poori. Fill with the stuffing and add milk around the edges. Seal the karanji properly.
- Deep fry them until they acquire a beautiful golden color.
Trivia
Maharashtrian hospitality is legendary indeed.In the ancient times, it is believed that the feasts began at mid-day, ending at sunset! The meal was dedicated to God, with several verses sung on Him when the food was presented.