Assamese Sweet Kordoi Recipe
Kordoi are delightful, crispy, and slightly sweet fried snacks that are a cherished treat in Assamese cuisine. These treats, particularly popular during the Bihu festival, take their name from the star fruit, known as “kordoi” in Assamese. The sweet and savory versions of this snack are beloved for their simple ingredients, satisfying crunch, and the hint of sweetness that comes from being dipped in sugar syrup. Assamese Sweet Kordoi are perfect to munch on during the evenings with a steaming cup of Adrak Chai (ginger tea). With just a few ingredients, you can make these beautiful treats in no time, and they are sure to be a hit at any gathering or festive occasion.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Lukewarm Water | 1/2 cup (adjust as needed) |
For the Sugar Syrup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Caster Sugar (powdered) | 1/4 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Oil | for deep frying |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Add the ghee to the flour and mix well to distribute the fat evenly throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the lukewarm water, a little at a time, and knead until you form a smooth, pliable dough. Adjust the water as needed to get the right consistency. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This helps to make the dough easier to roll out.
-
-
Shape the Kordoi:
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into larger dough balls, about 2 inches in diameter.
- On a lightly dusted surface, roll each ball into a thin circle, approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut 6-7 vertical and parallel lines into each dough circle. Ensure that the lines are about 1/2 inch apart but do not cut all the way through. Leave about 1/4 inch from the edge of the circle uncut. The pattern will resemble a slotted spoon.
- Now, starting from one end of the dough circle, gently roll the dough into a cylinder. Pinch both ends together and press them toward the center to create a characteristic shape resembling a star fruit. This fluffing technique gives the kordoi its unique appearance.
- Repeat this process with all the dough portions. This recipe will make approximately 12 Kordoi.
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Fry the Kordoi:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. You will need enough oil to submerge the Kordoi while frying.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the shaped Kordoi into the oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until golden brown and crisp on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Once fried, remove the Kordoi from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- While the Kordoi are cooling, prepare the sugar syrup. In a saucepan, combine the caster sugar and water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes until the syrup thickens and becomes sticky.
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Dip the Kordoi in Syrup:
- Once the syrup is ready, dip each Kordoi one by one into the syrup. Ensure that both sides are well-coated in the syrup, then remove them and place them on a serving platter. The sugar syrup will give them a glossy and sweet finish.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- The Assamese Sweet Kordoi can be served either warm or at room temperature. They are perfect when paired with a cup of Adrak Chai (ginger tea) to enjoy as an evening snack or during festive celebrations like Bihu.
Allergen Information:
- Wheat Flour: Contains gluten, which may be unsuitable for individuals with gluten allergies or celiac disease.
- Ghee: Contains dairy, which is unsuitable for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet.
- Sugar: Contains refined sugar, which should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with diabetes or those monitoring sugar intake.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely vegetarian as it does not contain any animal products aside from ghee.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Option: Replace ghee with vegan butter or coconut oil, and ensure that the sugar syrup does not contain any animal-derived products.
Tips & Advice:
- Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for a few minutes makes it easier to roll out and shape the Kordoi.
- Frying Tip: To ensure the Kordoi are crispy and golden brown, maintain a medium heat for frying. If the oil is too hot, the Kordoi may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw on the inside.
- Sugar Syrup Consistency: The syrup should be thick and sticky, but not too viscous. If it becomes too thick, add a little more water to adjust the consistency.
Conclusion:
Assamese Sweet Kordoi are an incredibly simple yet delicious treat, perfect for those who enjoy crunchy snacks with a hint of sweetness. These treats are a wonderful addition to any festive occasion, especially Bihu, and are bound to please both young and old alike. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, Assamese Sweet Kordoi are an easy way to bring a piece of Assamese culture into your home. So, next time you’re looking for a snack to pair with your tea, give this recipe a try and enjoy the flavors of Assam in the comfort of your kitchen!
