Thekua, a popular delicacy from the Eastern Indian states of Bihar and Jharkhand, is a delightful treat often prepared during the Chhath Puja festival. These deep-fried cookies are not only crispy and crunchy but also embody the rich flavors of traditional Indian ingredients. Made with whole wheat flour, jaggery, coconut and flavored with aromatic spices like fennel and cardamom, Thekua offers a unique taste that appeals to all ages. In this article, we’ll explore the detailed recipe, preparation steps and tips to make the perfect Thekua.
Thekua Recipe
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
To prepare Thekua, you will need the following ingredients:
- Whole Wheat Flour: 1.25 cups (155 to 160 grams)
- Salt: A pinch
- Fennel Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Grated Coconut or Desiccated Coconut: 1 tablespoon
- Green Cardamom Powder: ½ teaspoon or seeds of 4 to 5 green cardamoms crushed
- Ghee: 3 tablespoons (25 grams)
- Chopped Jaggery: ½ cup (85 grams)
- Water: ¼ cup (or as needed)
- Oil: 1.5 cups (for deep frying, any neutral-tasting oil)
Instructions
Making the Dough
Start by taking the whole wheat flour, salt, fennel seeds, grated coconut and cardamom powder in a mixing bowl. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly and set them aside. In a separate small bowl or pan, melt the ghee until it becomes hot. Pour the hot ghee into the dry mixture and stir with a spoon.
Once the mixture cools to a manageable temperature, use your fingers to mix the ghee with the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. When you press the mixture together, it should hold its shape and form a lump.
In a saucepan, add the jaggery and water. Heat on a medium-low flame until the jaggery melts completely. Gradually add this hot jaggery solution to the flour mixture, mixing it in parts. Start with a spoon and then knead the mixture lightly until it forms a firm or semi-soft dough. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and allow it to rest for 15 minutes.
Shaping the Thekua
After resting, divide the dough into small balls. Flatten each ball gently using your palms or a rolling pin. To create beautiful designs, press the flattened discs with a peda maker, cookie press, or use a toothpick, fork, or bamboo skewer to make patterns. Keep the shaped Thekua covered with a kitchen napkin to prevent them from drying out.
Deep Frying
Heat 1.5 cups of oil in a kadai or wok. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it rises gradually to the surface, the oil is ready. Reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully place the prepared discs into the hot oil. Fry one side until golden brown, then gently flip the Thekua using a slotted spoon or dinner spoon. Be cautious while turning to avoid breaking them.
Continue frying until they are golden and crisp. Thanks to the jaggery, these cookies will have a rich golden color. Once fried, place the Thekua on kitchen paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat this process for the remaining shaped cookies.
Storing and Serving
Once the Thekua cools to room temperature, store them in an airtight container. These cookies can be enjoyed as a tea-time snack or offered to guests during special occasions. The delicious blend of flavors makes Thekua an irresistible treat for everyone
Tips for Making Perfect Thekua
- Scaling the Recipe: This recipe can be easily scaled up or down to suit your needs, allowing you to make a small or large batch.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the Thekua in advance; they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week after frying. Alternatively, prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it in plastic wrap. Just ensure to let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
- Dough Texture: If your dough appears crumbly and dry, add a few tablespoons of water. If it’s too sticky, incorporate a little more flour.
- Jaggery Substitute: If you don’t have jaggery, you can substitute it with dark brown sugar, light brown sugar, granulated white sugar, or even molasses.
In conclusion, Thekua is more than just a cookie; it is a symbol of celebration and tradition in Bihar and Jharkhand. With its unique flavors and crunchy texture, it is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether during festivals or as an everyday snack, following this Thekua recipe will help you create a delightful treat that is cherished by many. Enjoy your cooking and indulge in this delicious sweet!