Karanji is deep fried sweet dumplings with a dried coconut filling. It is similar to gujiya made in north India. It is a mandatory food that is offered during Ganesha Chaturthi.

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE DOUGH:

1. 1 cup plain flour (maida)
2. ¼ cup semolina fine, suji/rava
3. 1-2 tablespoon oil (the oil must be very hot)
4. A small pinch Salt
5. Oil for frying the karjikai

FOR THE FILLING:

1. ½ cup coconut dried, grated
2. ¼ cup sugar
3. 1-2 cardamom
4. A handful cashew broken
5. A handful Almond cut to small pieces
6. A handful raisins

RECIPE FOR KARANJI

1. Grind together sugar and cardamom seeds
2. Mix it with the rest of the filling ingredients, dry grated coconut, pieces of dry nuts & raisins
3. Pour hot oil into flour and semolina mixture
4. Knead into a stiff dough and let it rest
5. Roll a small portion of dough, place on dumpling mould, and put some filling inside
6. Apply water to the edges, close the mould and press it together to seal completely
7. Fry the karanji in batches on medium-low flame till golden & crispy
8. Cool completely. Serve or store in airtight container