Crispy Layered Chiroti – Indian Sweet Puri with Cardamom Syrup

Chiroti Recipe – Crispy Layered Sweet Puri

Chiroti is a traditional Indian dessert that is especially popular during festivals like Diwali and special occasions. These sweet, crispy, layered puris are made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, ghee, and sugar syrup, but their delicate, flaky texture and delightful crunch make them a treat to remember. The process of making Chiroti involves layering dough, rolling it up, and deep-frying the puris until golden. They are then soaked in warm sugar syrup and garnished with chopped nuts for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4

Cuisine: Indian

Course: Dessert

Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

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   • Begin by making the dough for the Chiroti. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of maida (all-purpose flour) and 2 tablespoons of ghee.
   • Gradually add water and knead into a firm dough, similar in consistency to puri dough. You can use a food processor to knead the dough as well, which can make the process easier.
   • Once the dough is smooth and firm, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

2. Make the Sugar Syrup:

   • In a pan, combine 3/4 cup of sugar and 1/3 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring occasionally.
   • Once the syrup starts to boil, reduce the heat and continue to cook until the syrup reaches a one-string consistency. To test, take a drop of syrup between your fingers; it should form a single thread.
   • Add 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder for fragrance, then remove the pan from heat. Set aside the sugar syrup and keep it warm.

3. Prepare the Ghee-Flour Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of ghee, 1 tablespoon of rice flour, and 1/2 tablespoon of maida (all-purpose flour).
   • Stir the mixture until smooth and set it aside for later use.

4. Shape the Puri Layers:

   • Divide the rested dough into 6 equal portions and roll each portion into a smooth ball.
   • Roll each ball into a thin, round disc, similar in size to a large roti. The thinner the disc, the flakier the Chiroti will be.
   • Take one rolled-out dough disc and apply a thin layer of the ghee-flour mixture on top. Spread it evenly over the surface.
   • Place a second roti on top of the first, and again apply the ghee-flour mixture over it. Repeat with a third roti and ghee-flour mixture.
   • Once you have three layered discs, carefully roll them up into a log shape, like a Swiss roll.
   • Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled dough into small pieces, each about the size of a mini Swiss roll or pinwheel.

5. Flatten the Pinwheels:

   • Take each small piece and gently press it down to flatten it into a round disc. These flattened pieces will become your Chiroti.
   • Repeat the process for the remaining dough portions.

6. Deep-Fry the Chiroti:

   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the Chiroti but not smoking.
   • Carefully slide each flattened Chiroti into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally for even frying.
   • Once fried, remove the Chiroti from the oil and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

7. Soak in Sugar Syrup:

   • Immediately after frying, dip each Chiroti into the warm sugar syrup. The syrup should be warm, not too hot or at room temperature, for the best absorption.
   • Soak each Chiroti in the syrup for about a minute, allowing it to absorb the sweetness and become fully coated.

8. Garnish and Serve:

   • After soaking in the syrup, remove the Chiroti and place it on a platter. Sprinkle chopped almonds, pistachios, and cashews over the top for added texture and flavor.
   • Allow the Chiroti to cool before serving. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container for later use.

Serving Suggestions

Chiroti makes for an excellent sweet to serve during festive meals, particularly during Diwali, when its delicate sweetness and crispy texture are much appreciated. It pairs wonderfully with other snacks such as Instant Poha Chivda and a cup of Masala Chai (Indian Spiced Tea). These Chiroti can also be served as a treat for guests, or as part of a dessert spread at a family gathering. The crispy layers, the rich ghee, the warm sugar syrup, and the nuts make each bite a delightful experience.

Enjoy this festive treat as a perfect addition to your Indian sweets collection, and share it with loved ones to spread joy!