North East Khapse: Deep Fried Biscuits from Arunachal
Introduction:
North East Khapse, a delightful sweet snack from the North-Eastern region of India, specifically Arunachal Pradesh, holds a special place in the hearts of families. These deep-fried biscuits are light, crunchy, and just the right amount of sweet, making them the perfect tea-time treat. Traditionally enjoyed with hot Masala Chai, these biscuits are easy to prepare and bring a sense of warmth and togetherness to any gathering. Whether you’re new to North-East Indian cuisine or a long-time lover of its flavors, this recipe is sure to leave you craving for more.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 cups |
| Oil | 1/4 cup (plus more for deep frying) |
| Sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
Allergen Information
- Gluten: This recipe uses all-purpose flour (maida), which contains gluten. It is not suitable for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
- Dairy: This recipe contains milk, so it is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Frying Oil: Contains fats. Choose a neutral oil like sunflower or vegetable oil for frying.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great choice for those who follow a plant-based diet.
- Sugar: The recipe includes sugar as a key ingredient, so it is sweet. If you are looking to reduce sugar intake, you can try using a sugar substitute, though the taste and texture might vary.
- Non-Vegan: This recipe contains dairy products, making it unsuitable for vegans unless substituted with dairy-free alternatives.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sugar Water
Begin by dissolving the sugar in 1/2 cup of warm water. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and set the mixture aside. This will give your biscuits a slight sweetness without being overly sugary. -
Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (maida), 1/4 cup of oil, the sugar water, and milk. Mix them together thoroughly to form a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but firm enough to roll out. -
Roll the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. The dough should not be too thick, as thinner dough will result in crispier biscuits. -
Shape the Khapse
Cut the rolled dough into strips. For each strip, make a small slot in the middle, then pull one corner of the strip through the slot to create a twist. This twist not only gives the Khapse its signature look but also allows for even frying. -
Fry the Khapse
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, gently drop the shaped Khapse into the oil, one by one. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Turn them gently with a slotted spoon to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Fry the Khapse until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them – the heat should be controlled to get the perfect crispiness. -
Drain and Serve
Once the Khapse are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your freshly made North East Khapse with a steaming cup of Masala Chai and a Grilled Spicy Potato Sandwich for a delightful tea party experience. These biscuits are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to bring people together, enjoying the warm flavors of Arunachal’s culinary heritage.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
While exact nutritional data may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes, here is a rough estimate:
- Calories: 120-150 kcal per piece (based on typical portion size)
- Fat: 8g (depending on the amount of oil absorbed during frying)
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips for Success
- Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it feels too dry, add a bit more milk to reach the desired texture.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the Khapse. If the oil is too cool, the biscuits will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough – it should sizzle and float immediately.
- Serving Ideas: While traditionally served with tea, Khapse also make a wonderful accompaniment to any spicy dish or chutney. For a fun twist, try pairing them with a spicy dip or using them as a base for sweet fillings.
Conclusion
The North East Khapse Recipe is an excellent way to explore the flavors of Arunachal Pradesh and bring a piece of Indian tradition into your kitchen. Its simplicity, combined with the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, makes it an irresistible snack. Whether you’re serving it at a tea party, enjoying it during family gatherings, or just indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your snack repertoire.
Give this recipe a try, and let the warmth of the North-East Indian flavors brighten your day.
