Sakkare Achhu Recipe (Festive Sugar Figurines)
Sakkare Achhu, a delightful sweet from the state of Karnataka, India, is a festive treat that brings joy and color to any celebration. These sugar figurines, known for their intricate designs and vibrant hues, are a testament to the artistry of traditional Indian sweets. Whether you’re preparing for a festival or looking to impress your guests with a unique dessert, Sakkare Achhu is the perfect choice. The following recipe provides detailed instructions to guide you through the process of creating these charming sugar shapes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 1 tablespoon |
| Food Color (optional) | 1 pinch |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Preparation Time
| Description | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 20 |
| Cooking | 30 |
| Total Time | 50 |
Servings
| Number of Servings | 20 |
Cuisine
| Type | Karnataka |
Course
| Category | Dessert |
Dietary Information
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
To embark on your Sakkare Achhu adventure, begin by soaking the wooden molds in water for a minimum of 5 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This step ensures that the molds are ready to handle the hot sugar syrup, promoting even distribution and ease of release once the sugar has solidified. If you opt for silicone molds, you can skip this soaking process entirely.
Next, combine the sugar and water in a bowl and let it soak for 2 to 3 hours. This pre-soaking helps dissolve the sugar thoroughly and prepares it for the syrup-making process. Once the sugar has soaked, transfer it to a medium-sized saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir gently as the mixture heats, bringing it to a gentle boil.
As the sugar solution begins to boil, introduce the milk into the mixture. This addition serves to purify the sugar syrup, helping to remove impurities. Allow the mixture to return to a boil, then strain the syrup through a muslin cloth into a separate vessel, discarding any residue that collects.
Place the strained syrup back into the saucepan over medium heat. As it nears a boil, carefully stir in the tablespoon of curd. This ingredient aids in achieving the desired consistency. If you wish to add a touch of color to your Sakkare Achhu, this is the moment to introduce your chosen food coloring.
At this stage, you will notice the syrup starting to thicken, producing a frothy texture. To achieve the right consistency, it’s essential to manage the heat carefully. Keep stirring continuously as you allow the froth to settle. You can temporarily remove the saucepan from heat to help this process along. Once the froth diminishes, return it to the flame. This step may need to be repeated several times (around 5 to 6) until you observe a translucent syrup that indicates it has reached the ideal thickness.
Once the syrup is ready, swiftly pour it into the prepared molds, tapping them gently to eliminate any air bubbles and ensure even distribution. Allow the sugar syrup to set in the molds for about 10 to 15 minutes.
After the sugar has solidified, carefully remove the rubber bands and gently open the wooden molds. If needed, use a pin, knife, or toothpick to help release the Sakkare Achhu from the molds without breaking them.
To complete the process, place the figurines under sunlight for about 1 to 2 hours to thoroughly dry them. This step is crucial for enhancing the shelf life of your creations. Store your beautifully crafted Sakkare Achhu in an airtight container, where they will remain good for several months.
These delightful festive sugar figurines not only serve as a sweet treat but also as a beautiful addition to any occasion. Enjoy serving Sakkare Achhu as a unique dessert that embodies the spirit of celebration.
