Ellu Mittai

Ingredients

• - sesame chikki as main ingredient
• - Jaggery or sugar as sweetener
• - Ghee or oil
• - Cardamom or flavouring
• - Salt to taste

Method

1. About Ellu Mittai: South India has an extraordinary tradition of crispy fried snacks kept in jars for weeks. Ellu Mittai is made from sesame chikki. Village and temple tradition. Sesame chikki — Pongal and Karthigai sweet
2. Measure everything: Keep all ingredients measured and ready before starting.
3. Make dough: Combine main ingredient with 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida, 1 teaspoon red chilli powder, 1 tablespoon butter or ghee and salt. Add water gradually and knead to a smooth, firm dough.
4. Rest dough: Cover with a damp cloth and rest 15 minutes.
5. Heat oil: Pour oil into a deep pan to 8 cm depth. Heat on medium. A small piece of dough should rise to the surface in 3 to 4 seconds.
6. Shape: Dry roast 2 cups white sesame seeds. Prepare thick jaggery syrup.
7. Fry on medium heat: Add shaped pieces to oil. Medium heat only — high heat browns before inside is cooked.
8. Fry until done: Fry 3 to 5 minutes total, turning once, until evenly golden-brown. Reduced sizzling means it is ready.
9. Drain: Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Will crisp further as it cools.
10. Cool completely: Let cool 20 to 30 minutes before storing.
11. Store: Store in an airtight jar at room temperature. Stays crispy for 2 to 3 weeks.