Shakarkandi Malpua Recipe – Mishti Aloo Malpua: A Delectable Sweet Potato Delight
Shakarkandi Malpua, a sweet indulgence crafted from sweet potatoes, is a popular North Indian dessert known for its aromatic blend of fennel (saunf) and cardamom (elaichi). This dish brings together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of milk powder, semolina, and a delicately flavored rose syrup. Each bite of this golden, crispy treat offers a perfect balance of flavors, making it a beloved option for festive occasions, family gatherings, or simply as a decadent treat after a hearty meal.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Shakarkandi Malpua
For the Malpua Batter
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes (boiled, peeled, mashed) | 2 medium-sized |
| Milk Powder | 1 cup |
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | ½ cup |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Semolina (Sooji or Rava) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
For the Sugar Syrup
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Rose Water | 1 teaspoon |
For Frying and Garnishing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil or Ghee | As required for frying |
| Pistachios (chopped) | As required for garnishing |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions for Making Shakarkandi Malpua
-
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by peeling and boiling the sweet potatoes. Once they are cooked, allow them to cool slightly. Then, mash them thoroughly using a potato masher or your hands until smooth. -
Make the Malpua Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the following ingredients: milk powder, all-purpose flour (maida), sugar, semolina (sooji), fennel seeds, and cardamom powder. Mix well until the batter becomes smooth and thick. The consistency of the batter should be slightly thicker than your usual malpua batter to prevent the malpua from breaking while frying. If the batter is too thick, add a little milk to adjust the consistency. Allow the batter to rest for about 20 minutes. -
Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
While the batter is resting, prepare the sugar syrup. In a saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once dissolved, continue boiling the syrup for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of rose water to infuse a floral aroma into the syrup. Set aside. -
Fry the Malpuas:
Heat oil or ghee in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, take a ladle of the malpua batter and gently drop it into the hot oil, shaping it into a round form. Fry the malpua on one side until it turns golden brown, then carefully flip it to fry the other side. Be gentle while flipping to avoid breaking. Cook until both sides are crispy and golden. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. -
Soak the Malpua in Sugar Syrup:
Once the malpua is fried to perfection, carefully remove it from the pan and dip it into the prepared sugar syrup. Let the malpua soak in the syrup for about 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the sweetness and rose water fragrance. -
Serve and Garnish:
Once soaked, transfer the malpua to a serving plate. Garnish with finely chopped pistachios for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. -
Storage Tips:
If you have leftovers, you can store the malpua in the freezer for up to 5 days. To enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave or on a stovetop, and they will be as delicious as when freshly made.
Serving Suggestions
Shakarkandi Malpua can be served as a dessert to end a festive meal. Pair it with dishes like Jaipuri Aloo Pyaaz Ki Sabzi, Ajwain Puri, Kale Chane Ki Sabzi, Boondi Raita, and Satvik Carrot Sprout Salad for a delightful North Indian feast. Its rich, fragrant syrup and crunchy texture will leave everyone craving more!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Quantity (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 20g |
Why You’ll Love Shakarkandi Malpua:
- Rich in flavors: The combination of sweet potatoes with cardamom, fennel seeds, and rose water brings a unique taste that is both fragrant and sweet.
- Perfect for festive occasions: Whether it’s Diwali, Holi, or any family celebration, this dish fits beautifully as a sweet treat to share with loved ones.
- Versatile and easily stored: Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it can also be made ahead and stored in the freezer, making it convenient for busy times.
This Shakarkandi Malpua is an exceptional fusion of sweet potato goodness and aromatic spices, capturing the essence of Indian desserts in one delightful bite. Give it a try and share the joy with family and friends during your next special gathering!
