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Imarti

A classic Indian sweet of crispy, syrup-soaked fried batter rings, perfect for festivals or a special treat.

Total time
45 min
Servings
4
Calories
350
Protein
6g
Imarti
festiveindulgentIndianvegetariangluten-freelegumecrispysyrupy

Ingredients

  • 1 cup urad dal
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • ¼ teaspoon saffron strands
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 2 cups ghee or oil for frying

Instructions

  1. 1

    Soak the 1 cup urad dal in water for 4-6 hours, then drain and grind with a little water to a smooth, thick batter. Whisk until fluffy and light.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. Boil until the syrup reaches a one-string consistency (a drop between fingers forms a single thread), about 10 minutes. Stir in the saffron and cardamom.

  3. 3

    Heat the 2 cups ghee or oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Fill a piping bag or squeeze bottle with the batter.

  4. 4

    Pipe the batter into hot oil in concentric circles, making a spiral about 2 inches wide. Fry 2-3 at a time, not crowding the pan.

  5. 5

    Fry until golden and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side, turning once. Drain briefly on paper towels.

  6. 6

    Immediately immerse the hot imarti in the warm sugar syrup for 30-60 seconds, then remove and let drain on a rack.

  7. 7

    Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with extra syrup if desired.

Tools you’ll need

  • piping bag or squeeze bottle
  • deep skillet or kadhai
  • slotted spoon
  • saucepan

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