Anarsa

Anarsa is a traditional Indian sweet dish, primarily associated with the Bihar, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand regions of India. It is a popular dessert item prepared during festivals like Diwali and Durga Puja.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredients of Anarsa are rice, jaggery, and poppy seeds. The rice is soaked for a few days, then dried and ground into a fine powder. The jaggery is melted into a syrup, into which the rice powder is mixed to form a dough. This dough is then shaped into small discs, coated with poppy seeds, and deep-fried until golden brown.

Cultural Significance

Anarsa holds a significant place in Indian culture, particularly in the regions where it is most commonly prepared. It is often made during religious festivals and celebrations, and is considered a symbol of happiness and prosperity. In Maharashtra, it is a key part of the Diwali Faral, the assortment of sweets and snacks prepared during Diwali.

Variations

While the basic recipe for Anarsa remains the same, there are regional variations in its preparation. In some parts of Bihar and Jharkhand, for instance, the Anarsa dough is often filled with a mixture of sweetened khoya and dried fruits. In Maharashtra, on the other hand, Anarsa is typically prepared without any filling.

See Also

• List of Indian sweets and desserts
• Indian cuisine
• Diwali Faral