Crispy Sooji Kakara Pitha: A Sweet Semolina Treat from Odisha

35 minutes

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4.60 from 5 votes

About Crispy Sooji Kakara Pitha: A Sweet Semolina Treat from Odisha

Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-fried Sooji Kakara Pitha, a traditional sweet treat from Odisha, India. The fragrant aroma of cardamom and coconut fills the air as you savor the delightful crunch.
These semolina cakes are filled with a luscious coconut and cardamom mixture, a perfect symphony of textures and flavors. Simple to make with this easy-to-follow recipe, they're a satisfying dessert that embodies Odisha's rich culinary heritage.
Perfect for festivals or a cozy evening, these delectable pithas are best enjoyed warm or cool and are sure to become a new family favorite.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook15 minutes
Total35 minutes
Calories418 kcal
Serves3
Recipe TasteSweet

Ingredients
 

For the Filling

For the Dough

For Frying

  • Oil for deep frying
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Instructions
 

  • In a frying pan, combine the grated coconut, sugar, and ground cardamom.
  • Fry the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and the coconut is slightly dry. This creates a flavorful, cohesive filling.
  • Remove the filling from the heat and set it aside to cool.
    Crispy Sooji Kakara Pitha: A Sweet Semolina Treat from Odisha - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
  • Once boiling, gradually add the semolina while stirring continuously. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth dough.
  • Add the oil and ground cardamom to the dough. Stir well to combine.
  • Cook the dough for one minute, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
  • Remove the dough from the heat and set it aside to cool to room temperature.
    Crispy Sooji Kakara Pitha: A Sweet Semolina Treat from Odisha - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it briefly until soft and pliable.
  • Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball, flatten it slightly, and place a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center.
  • Bring the edges of the dough together to enclose the filling completely, then roll it gently between your palms to form a smooth ball.
    Crispy Sooji Kakara Pitha: A Sweet Semolina Treat from Odisha - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Flatten each filled ball gently between your palms to create a disc shape.
    Crispy Sooji Kakara Pitha: A Sweet Semolina Treat from Odisha - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Heat oil for deep frying in a kadai or deep skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the flattened pithas into the hot oil.
  • Fry the pithas until they turn a beautiful golden brown on both sides, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
  • Remove the golden-brown Sooji Kakara Pithas from the oil and drain them on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve warm or cool and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • For an extra layer of flavor and texture, add a handful of finely chopped cashews or raisins to the coconut-sugar filling before stuffing the pitha.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, cover the cooked pithas with a damp cloth immediately after frying—this helps them retain moisture and become slightly more tender.
  • To make a vegan version, use coconut oil for frying instead of ghee, and ensure the filling contains only plant-based ingredients.

Expert Tips

  • For a richer flavor, try roasting the coconut flakes lightly before mixing them with the sugar for the filling.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan while frying the pithas. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
  • Experiment with different fillings! Sweet lentil paste or spiced mashed potatoes can be delicious alternatives.

Storage Instructions

  • Leftover pithas can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
  • Reheat them on a low flame or in the oven to restore their crispness before serving.

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4.60 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 418kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 4gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5.7gMonounsaturated Fat: 11.4gFiber: 1gSugar: 33g

payal jain
payal jain
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