Sakkare Achhu: Traditional Festive Sugar Figurines for Sankranti

Sakkare Achhu Recipe: Festive Sugar Figurines

Sakkare Achhu, a traditional sweet treat from Karnataka, is a festive sugar candy typically prepared during the vibrant celebration of Sankranti. Known for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and sugary sweetness, Sakkare Achhu is made by pouring purified sugar syrup into wooden or silicon molds to create delightful sugar figurines. These beautiful candies are traditionally shared alongside sugar cane and ellu bella (sesame seeds and jaggery mix) during the festival, symbolizing good fortune and togetherness. If you’re looking for an authentic Indian festive dessert, Sakkare Achhu is a unique treat that brings joy and sweetness to every occasion.

Ingredients

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Soak Molds: Begin by soaking the wooden molds in water overnight or for about 5-6 hours. This is essential to ensure the molds are ready for the sugar syrup. If you’re using silicone molds, you can skip this step.

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2. Prepare the Molds: Once the molds are soaked, pair them up and fasten them securely with rubber bands. Ensure the molds are firmly held together to avoid leakage during the pouring process. Set all molds aside and have them ready before starting the sugar syrup.

3. Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a large bowl, soak 1 cup of sugar in 1/2 cup of water for about 2-3 hours. After soaking, stir the sugar-water mixture well and transfer it to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle boil.

4. Add Milk: When the sugar solution starts boiling, add 2 tablespoons of milk to the mixture. Allow it to boil further, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps.

5. Strain the Syrup: Once the syrup has boiled, strain it using a muslin cloth into another vessel to remove any impurities or milk solids. Transfer the strained syrup back into the saucepan and return it to the heat.

6. Add Curd: When the syrup reaches a near-boil again, add 1 tablespoon of curd to it. Stir well and allow it to boil again. At this point, if you wish to color the sugar figurines, add a pinch of food color. Mix the syrup well.

7. Achieving the Right Consistency: The sugar syrup will start to thicken, and you will notice frothing. To settle the froth, reduce the heat or remove the saucepan from the flame. Stir continuously. Once the frothing subsides, the syrup will become transparent.

8. Boil Until Translucent: Put the saucepan back on the heat and bring the syrup to a boil again. Repeat this process 5-6 times until the syrup is clear and has reached a thick, translucent consistency. This is the right stage for preparing the Sakkare Achhu.

9. Molding the Figurines: Quickly pour the hot sugar syrup into the prepared molds. Tap the molds gently to ensure that the syrup is evenly distributed and that no air bubbles are trapped inside.

10. Let it Set: Allow the syrup to set and solidify in the molds for about 10-15 minutes. Once firm, remove the rubber bands and carefully open the wooden molds.

11. Unmolding the Figurines: To remove the figurines from the molds, use a pin, knife, or toothpick to gently separate the Sakkare Achhus from the molds. Be careful not to break the delicate sugar shapes.

12. Drying: Place the molded sugar figurines in the sun to dry for about 1-2 hours. This will help them harden further and preserve their crisp texture.

13. Storage: Store the fully dried Sakkare Achhus in an airtight container. They can be kept for several months without losing their freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Sakkare Achhu Recipe is best served as a festive dessert, especially during Sankranti celebrations. These sugary figurines can be distributed to friends and family as a sweet gesture. Serve them alongside traditional offerings like ellu bella and sugar cane for a truly festive experience.

Allergen Information

• Milk and Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) are used in this recipe, which makes it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies.
• The recipe contains sugar and food color, which should be used with caution by individuals who may have allergies or sensitivities to food dyes.

Dietary Preferences

• Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a plant-based diet.
• Gluten-Free: There are no gluten-containing ingredients in this recipe, so it is safe for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• No Nuts: This recipe does not include nuts, so it is safe for those with nut allergies.

Tips and Tricks

• Choosing the Right Molds: For the most authentic experience, use traditional wooden molds. However, if these are not available, silicon molds can be used as a substitute.
• Storage: Once dried, the figurines can stay fresh for months. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp.
• Consistency Check: The key to making perfect Sakkare Achhu lies in achieving the right consistency of the sugar syrup. Be patient with the boiling process, as the syrup needs to thicken and become clear before you pour it into the molds.
• Add Color: If you want vibrant sugar figurines, feel free to use a pinch of food coloring to give them a festive touch.

Conclusion

The Sakkare Achhu is a traditional and delightful treat that brings people together during festivals like Sankranti. With its easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can create these festive sugar figurines at home and share them with loved ones. Whether served as a dessert or a gift, Sakkare Achhu adds a sweet touch to any celebration, making it an integral part of the Sankranti festivities in Karnataka.