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Pitha is a traditional Bengali delicacy made during festivals and special occasions. There are various types of Pitha, each with its unique preparation method. Here’s a general recipe for making basic rice flour Pitha, a popular variety:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- Water (approximately 1 cup)
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- Oil or ghee for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Make the Dough:
- Gradually add water to the rice flour mixture while mixing continuously. Keep adding water until you get a smooth, lump-free batter that is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat a non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Forming the Pitha:
- Take a ladleful of batter and pour it onto the hot pan. Use the back of the ladle to spread the batter evenly in a circular motion, forming a thin, round Pitha.
- Cooking:
- Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges of the Pitha and cook it on medium-low heat until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flipping the Pitha:
- Carefully flip the Pitha using a spatula and cook the other side until it’s golden and crispy. Add more oil or ghee around the edges if needed.
- Remove and Serve:
- Once both sides are cooked and crispy, transfer the Pitha to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Repeat:
- Continue making Pitha with the remaining batter, adding oil or ghee to the pan as needed between batches.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the Pitha warm as a snack or dessert. It can be enjoyed plain or with toppings like grated coconut, jaggery syrup, or condensed milk.
Variations:
- Puli Pitha: Stuffed rice flour dumplings filled with sweetened coconut or jaggery.
- Chitoi Pitha: Fermented rice flour pancakes, similar to dosa but thicker.
- Patishapta Pitha: Thin crepes filled with coconut or khoya (reduced milk) and folded into rolls.
Experiment with different Pitha recipes to discover the variety and richness of this traditional Bengali treat!
