Nokshi Pitha

A beautifully crafted traditional dessert that originated in the rural areas of Bangladesh. Perfecting the designs of this pitha can definitely take a few attempts, but it's so worth it when you get it right!

Ingredients

Water 2.5 cups

Salt to taste

Rice flour 2 cups

Oil for kneading and design

Use a toothpick or small screw driver for making designs on pitha

Directions

Bring water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Add salt to taste, stir and mix.
Once the water starts to boil, add rice flour. Stir and cover with lid.
Turn off heat and let it sit under the closed lid for 10 mins.
Remove lid and mix everything together, allow it to cool down to room temperature before kneading.
Knead well for couple minutes to form a smooth and soft dough. Divide the dough into smaller equal portions.
Brush oil on the rolling surface and on top of dough, flatten and roll out to a thick flat circle.
Using a toothpick or a small screw driver, cut and design into pitha shape. Remember to practice enough times to perfect the designs!
Deep fry the pithas in medium hot oil until they are golden brown. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towel.
Make syrup in a separate saucepan, add 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water. Stir and cook until the sugar dissolves completely. Add 1 tsp of honey to avoid crystallization.
Add the nokshi pithas and coat evenly on both sides.
Remove and serve in a plate.