Sweet Semolina Dumplings (Kakara Pitha): A Festive Indian Treat

50 minutes

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4.41 from 5 votes

About Sweet Semolina Dumplings (Kakara Pitha): A Festive Indian Treat

Transport yourself to the vibrant festivals of Odisha with Kakara Pitha, a sweet semolina dumpling traditionally savored during Raja-Sankranti. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden shell revealing a soft, fragrant center bursting with coconut and cardamom.
This easy recipe guides you through every step, from creating the perfect dough to achieving that irresistible texture. You'll be frying up these delightful treats in no time!
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of Indian tradition, Kakara Pitha offers a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total50 minutes
Calories149 kcal
Serves12
Recipe TasteSaltySavourySweet

Ingredients
 

For the Dough

For the Filling

For Frying

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Instructions
 

  • In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt and fennel seeds.
  • Once boiling, slowly whisk in the semolina to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover the pan and cook for 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a dough-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • While the dough is still warm, add the ghee. Knead for 3 minutes until smooth and pliable. This helps develop the gluten and creates a soft texture.
  • To prepare the filling, combine the grated coconut, ground cardamom, sugar, and jaggery in a separate pan. Cook over low heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the jaggery melts and the mixture is fragrant.
  • Remove the filling from the heat and set aside to cool.
  • Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized balls. Flatten each ball into a disc in your palm.
  • Place a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center of each disc. Gently bring the edges together to seal, forming a dumpling. Flatten the stuffed dumpling slightly.
    Sweet Semolina Dumplings (Kakara Pitha): A Festive Indian Treat - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Heat the sunflower oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to prevent the dumplings from absorbing too much oil.
  • Carefully place the dumplings in the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, turning occasionally. This creates a crispy outer layer.
  • Remove the Kakara Pitha from the oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • For an extra fragrant filling, lightly toast the fennel seeds before adding them to the jaggery-coconut mixture; this enhances their aroma and adds depth to the sweet stuffing.
  • If you prefer a crisper exterior, fry the dumplings in small batches and avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even browning.
  • Try incorporating a handful of finely chopped cashews or raisins into the filling for added texture and a subtle burst of sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the coconut and jaggery.

Expert Tips

  • For a richer flavor, consider using fresh grated coconut instead of desiccated coconut for the filling.
  • If jaggery isn't available, you can substitute with dark brown sugar or palm sugar, adjusting the amount to taste.
  • Serve Kakara warm with a side of chai or a dollop of yogurt for a truly authentic experience.

Storage Instructions

  • To store leftover Kakara, allow them to cool completely, then keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
  • Briefly reheat in a low oven or air fryer to restore their crisp texture before serving.

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4.41 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 149kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 4gFat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 48mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Sai Priya
Sai Priya

I love travelling, meeting people, knowing their dreams, capturing that essence of Life in my camera lens, while doing that I never miss a chance to explore...

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