Anarsa, a cherished sweet delicacy with deep roots in the culinary traditions of Bihar and Maharashtra, India, holds a unique place in the realm of festive treats. This time-honored confection is not merely a sweet dish; it is a cultural emblem, symbolizing the rich heritage and traditional celebrations of the region. The art of making Anarsa involves a meticulous process, blending simple yet distinct ingredients to create a sweet that boasts a crispy exterior, a chewy interior, and a flavor profile that resonates with the warmth of festivals and familial gatherings.

Derived from a blend of rice flour, jaggery, and ghee, Anarsa showcases the culinary craftsmanship of Indian kitchens, especially during festive occasions like Diwali. Its preparation involves soaking and grinding rice to perfection, creating a fine flour that forms the foundation of this delectable treat. The infusion of jaggery syrup, made from melting down natural sweeteners, and the addition of ghee contribute to the rich and indulgent character that defines Anarsa.

What sets Anarsa apart is its unique fermentation process, allowing the batter to develop nuanced flavors over a span of 2-3 days. This patient waiting period imparts a depth and complexity to the sweet, elevating it beyond a mere confection to a symbol of cultural heritage.

As the Anarsa batter is carefully shaped into discs and fried to a golden-brown hue, the sweet emanates an irresistible aroma that beckons to those with a penchant for traditional Indian sweets. Optional embellishments such as sesame seeds add a delightful crunch, enhancing the sensory experience.

Whether served during religious celebrations, family gatherings, or as a cherished gift, Anarsa stands as a testament to the time-honored traditions of Indian cuisine. Its preparation demands patience, precision, and a love for the culinary arts, resulting in a treat that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also encapsulates the spirit of festivity and togetherness. Anarsa is more than a dessert; it is a cultural ode to the sweetness of life, shared and savored with loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup rice, soaked for 3 days, changing water every day
• 1 cup sugar powdered
• Milk as per requirement 
• Ghee, for cooking
• 4 tablespoons poppy seeds or sesame seeds

Directions:

Prepare Rice Powder:

1. Wash and Soak the rice for 3 days. Change the water every 24 hrs.
2. After 3 days, remove rice from water and spread it on a cotton cloth and keep it under a fan for 30 minutes. The rice will dry from outside.
3. Grind the rice into a fine powder. This forms the base of your Anarsa.

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the rice powder and Sugar powder. Add milk and knead the mixture into a smooth dough.
2. Cover the dough and keep it for 12 hrs. If you want,you can keep the dough for 72 hrs in the refrigerator.

Shape the Anarsas:

Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a small ball. Flatten each ball into a disc shape, and use a fork to prick the surface all over. This step helps the Anarsas cook evenly.

Add Poppy Seeds or sesame seeds:

Apply a little bit of water on one side of the disc and Sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds on one side of each disc. The poppy seeds or sesame seeds add a crunchy texture and enhance the visual appeal of the Anarsas.

Fry the Anarsas:

Heat ghee in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the Anarsas, poppy seed/sesame seeds side down, in the medium hot ghee. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy. Then, flip them and fry the other side until it achieves the same golden color.

Drain and Serve:

Once both sides are cooked to perfection, remove the Anarsas from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess ghee.

Serve Warm or at Room temperature 

Enjoy these delightful treats.

Tips:

• For an authentic taste, use jaggery instead of caster sugar.
• To achieve extra crispiness, consider deep frying the Anarsas.
• If the dough cracks while frying, add a bit more milk to maintain the consistency.
• Store the Anarsas in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Additional Information:

Anarsas, adorned with poppy seeds, are a cherished sweet snack during festivals like Diwali and Tihar in India and Nepal. They offer a delightful combination of crispy texture on the outside and chewiness inside, with a sweet and nutty flavor. These treats are not just delicious but also provide a good source of carbohydrates and energy, making them a perfect choice for snacking or enjoying with your favorite beverages.