Khaja Recipe: Crispy, Flaky Indian Sweet (Jagannath Temple Style)

40 minutes

1036 reads

4.30 from 10 votes

About Khaja Recipe: Crispy, Flaky Indian Sweet (Jagannath Temple Style)

Khaja, also known as Pheni, is a beloved crisp and flaky sweet treat, a sacred offering at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, India. Its irresistible aroma and delightful texture make it a true culinary masterpiece.
Imagine mountains of golden-brown Khaja, a sight synonymous with the temple's vibrant atmosphere. This recipe allows you to recreate this iconic delicacy at home, sharing a taste of sacred tradition.
Prepare to be amazed by the layers of flaky goodness and the enchanting sweetness that will transport you to the heart of Jagannath Dham.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Total40 minutes
Calories282 kcal
Serves12
Recipe TasteSweet

Ingredients
 

For the Dough

For the Lamination Paste

For the Sugar Syrup

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough

  • Combine flour, ghee, and salt in a bowl. Rub the ghee into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, kneading until a stiff, pliable dough forms. Smear a little ghee on the dough, cover, and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Lamination Paste

  • In a small bowl, mix together the flour and ghee to create a smooth paste.

Shape the Khaja

  • Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin rectangle. Spread some of the flour-ghee paste over one rectangle, top with another rectangle, and repeat until all four are layered. Roll the layered dough tightly into a cylinder.

Cut and Fry

  • Cut the cylinder into 1 1/2-inch thick slices. Roll each slice into a 5-inch long strip, being careful not to make it too thin. Heat the oil in a wok or deep pan. Fry the Khaja strips in batches until golden brown and crispy, flipping to ensure even cooking.

Drain and Cool

  • Remove the fried Khaja and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them cool completely.

Make the Sugar Syrup

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the syrup reaches a soft-ball stage (two-string consistency). Remove from heat.

Sweeten and Finish

  • Dip the cooled Khaja into the warm syrup, ensuring they are fully coated. Immediately remove and sprinkle with powdered camphor. Allow to cool completely.

Serve and Store

  • Serve the Khaja warm or at room temperature. Store leftover Khaja in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for Perfect Khaja

  • For extra flaky Khaja, chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling and layering. This helps prevent the layers from sticking.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan while frying. This will lower the oil temperature and result in oily, less crispy Khaja. Fry in small batches.
  • Use a good quality ghee (clarified butter) for the best flavor and texture. Desi ghee is traditionally preferred.
  • The two-string consistency for the sugar syrup is crucial for a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Use a candy thermometer for precise results.

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4.30 from 10 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 282kcalCarbohydrates: 66gProtein: 2gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 6mgPotassium: 24mgFiber: 1gSugar: 50gCalcium: 5mgIron: 1mg

Sweta Biswal
Sweta Biswal

From authentic recipes from Odisha to low calorie delights, I blog and share it. It is a reflection of my healthy eating and living habits.

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