Imarti

Amriti Frying - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2012-04-22 2207

Frying Amriti - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2012-04-22 2210

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Jaangiri

Imarti or Jhangri is a traditional Indian sweet dish popular across the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its distinctive circular shape, with a flower-like pattern, and a deep orange or red color. Imarti is made from urad dal (black gram) batter, which is fermented, then deep-fried in a circular shape, and finally soaked in sugar syrup. This sweet is commonly served during festivals, weddings, and special occasions in various parts of India, as well as in neighboring countries.

Origin and History

The origin of Imarti dates back to ancient India, where it was known as Amriti or Emarti. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word Amrit, meaning nectar. It is believed to have been a popular sweet among the royal families and later spread to the common people. Over the centuries, Imarti has become an integral part of Indian culinary tradition, with variations found in different regions.

Preparation

The preparation of Imarti involves soaking urad dal overnight, which is then ground into a smooth paste. The paste is then fermented for a few hours to enhance its flavor. After fermentation, the batter is mixed with a small amount of all-purpose flour or rice flour to achieve the desired consistency. The batter is then poured into a cloth with a small hole or a special mold and deep-fried in ghee or vegetable oil in a circular motion to form its unique shape. Once fried to a golden brown, the Imartis are soaked in warm sugar syrup flavored with cardamom or saffron for a few minutes, allowing them to absorb the sweetness.

Regional Variations

Imarti is known by various names and has slight variations in ingredients and preparation methods across different regions. In South India, it is often referred to as Jhangri and is usually made with a mix of urad dal and rice flour, giving it a slightly different texture. In the northern regions, it is commonly made purely from urad dal.

Cultural Significance

Imarti not only holds a special place in Indian cuisine but also carries cultural significance. It is often associated with joyous occasions and celebrations, such as Diwali, weddings, and Eid al-Fitr. The sweet's rich color and intricate design are considered auspicious and symbolize prosperity and happiness.

Nutritional Information

While Imarti is a source of protein due to the urad dal, it is high in sugar and fat, making it a calorie-dense food. It is generally consumed in moderation as a dessert or treat.

See Also

• Jalebi
• Indian sweets
• Festivals of India

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