Dehrori

Dehrori

Traditional Sweet Rice Dumplings Origin: Chhattisgarh (Also popular in Bihar)

Ingredients

For the Dumplings

➔    1 cup rice (soaked for 4-5 hours)

➔    1/4 cup yogurt

➔    1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

➔    A pinch of salt

➔    Ghee, for frying

For the Sugar Syrup

➔    1 cup sugar

➔    1/2 cup water

➔    1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

➔    1 teaspoon lemon juice

To Garnish

➔    2 tablespoons cashews, chopped

➔    2 tablespoons almonds, slivered

➔    1 tablespoon grated coconut (optional)

To prepare Dehrori, soak the rice for 4-5 hours, then drain and grind it into a smooth paste using minimal water. Add yogurt, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt to the rice batter, mixing well to form a thick, lump-free consistency. Let the batter rest for 20-30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the sugar syrup by combining sugar and water in a pan. Heat it over a medium flame until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup reaches a one-string consistency. Add cardamom powder and lemon juice to prevent crystallization, and keep the syrup warm.

Heat ghee in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Take small portions of the rested batter with a spoon or your hand and carefully drop them into the hot ghee. Fry the dumplings until they turn golden brown and crispy, then remove them and drain excess ghee on a paper towel.

Immediately immerse the hot dumplings in the warm sugar syrup, allowing them to soak for at least 5-7 minutes so they absorb the sweetness and flavor. Transfer the soaked dumplings to a plate and garnish with chopped cashews, slivered almonds, and grated coconut. Dehrori is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.