Lavang Latika is a sweet delicacy from Odisha, India, made with fried dough and sugar syrup. A step-by-step guide on how to make Lavang Latika:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- A pinch of salt
- Water, as needed
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- A few saffron strands (optional)
- A pinch of cardamom powder
- A few cloves (lavang) for garnish
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (maida), semolina (sooji), a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of ghee. Mix well.
- Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a firm and smooth dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add saffron strands (if using) and a pinch of cardamom powder for flavor. Continue to cook the syrup until it reaches a one-string consistency. To check the consistency, take a small amount of syrup between your thumb and index finger; when you pull them apart, it should form a single thread.
3. Shape the Lavang Latika:
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions and shape them into smooth balls.
- Roll out each ball into a thin oval or rectangular shape on a greased surface. Roll it as thinly as possible without tearing.
- Cut the rolled dough into rectangular pieces of your desired size.
- Place a clove (lavang) at one end of each piece and fold it over. Press the edges to seal them, ensuring they don't open during frying.
4. Deep Fry:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully slide the shaped Lavang Latika pieces into the hot oil.
- Fry them until they turn golden brown and crisp. Make sure to fry them on medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the fried Lavang Latika from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Soak in Sugar Syrup:
- While the Lavang Latika is still warm, immerse them in the prepared sugar syrup. Let them soak for a few minutes, allowing the sweet syrup to be absorbed.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Lavang Latika to cool completely and dry. They will become crisp as they cool.
- Once they are fully set and dry, your Lavang Latika is ready to serve. Enjoy the sweet and crispy treat!
Lavang Latika is a delightful and aromatic dessert, often prepared during festivals and special occasions in Odisha.