Introduction:
In the vibrant tapestry of Indian sweets, Shankarpali stands as a crispy gem that has adorned countless festive occasions for generations. Originating in the western states of India, this delightful snack has transcended regional boundaries and found its way into the hearts and homes of people across the country. Loved for its addictive crunch and subtle sweetness, Shankarpali is the perfect treat to enjoy with family and friends during special celebrations. In this blog, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide to create your unique and scrumptious batch of Shankarpali, adding your signature touch to this classic Indian snack.
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients:
To craft your batch of Shankarpali, gather the following ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup semolina (sooji/rava)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter), melted
A pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Vegetable oil for deep frying
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, cardamom powder, and baking powder.
Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Incorporating the Ghee:
Gradually pour the melted ghee into the dry mixture.
Using your hands, combine the ghee with the dry ingredients to form a crumbly texture.
The ghee helps bind the ingredients and imparts a rich flavor to the Shankarpali.
Step 4: Kneading the Dough:
Begin kneading the mixture while adding a little water at a time.
Knead until the dough comes together into a smooth and firm ball.
Be cautious not to over-knead, as that might make the Shankarpali tough.
Step 5: Resting the Dough:
Wrap the prepared dough in plastic wrap or cover it with a damp cloth.
Allow the dough to rest for about 20-30 minutes to attain the perfect texture for rolling.
Step 6: Rolling and Cutting:
Divide the rested dough into smaller portions for easy handling.
Take one portion and roll it out into a thin, flat sheet on a clean, floured surface.
Using a knife or a cookie cutter, cut the rolled dough into desired shapes such as squares, diamonds, or rectangles.
Step 7: Preparing for Frying:
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.
To check if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
Step 8: Frying the Shankarpali:
Carefully add the cut Shankarpali pieces to the hot oil in batches.
Fry them until they turn golden brown and achieve a crispy texture.
Remove the fried Shankarpali from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil.
Step 9: Cooling and Storing:
Allow the fried Shankarpali to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their crispiness and flavor.
Step 10: Your Unique Shankarpali:
Add a personal touch to your Shankarpali by garnishing them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon for added aroma and flavor.
Pack them in colorful gift bags or containers to share the joy with your loved ones during festive celebrations.
Conclusion:
Shankarpali is a celebration of crunchy goodness that brings joy and togetherness to every occasion. By following this step-by-step guide, you can now create your own unique batch of Shankarpali, adding a touch of your creativity to this classic Indian snack. Whether it's Diwali, Holi, or any other festive event, Shankarpali is sure to charm your taste buds and those of your guests. So, roll up your sleeves, indulge in the joy of cooking, and savor the delightfully crispy Shankarpali with your loved ones. Happy frying and happy celebrations!
