In Gujarat, Sutarfeni is a popular traditional sweet delicacy. Sutarfeni is also known by various other names in different regions of India, such as "Sutarpheni," "Sutarfini," or "Chhaina Murgi" in Bengal. It is a delicious and delicate sweet made from very thin strands of dough, often combined with sugar and nuts.
Ingredients and Preparation: Sutarfeni is made using a combination of fine vermicelli-like strands and sugar syrup. The preparation typically involves the following steps:
-
Dough Preparation: A soft, pliable dough is made by mixing all-purpose flour (maida) and water. The dough is then rested for a while to attain the right texture.
-
Creating Thin Strands: The dough is rolled out very thinly and then stretched and pulled repeatedly t
o form fine strands. This process is similar to making filo pastry or shredded phyllo dough.
-
Frying or Baking: The thin dough strands are either deep-fried in ghee (clarified butter) until they become crisp and golden or baked in an oven.
-
Sugar Syrup: Meanwhile, a sugar syrup is prepared by dissolving sugar in water and heating it until it reaches a sticky consistency.
-
Combining the Strands and Syrup: Once the dough strands are ready and the sugar syrup is prepared, the strands are gently mixed with the syrup, ensuring they get coated evenly.
-
Adding Nuts and Flavors: Sutarfeni is often enhanced with the addition of chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or cashews, along with a sprinkle of cardamom powder for flavor.
-
Setting and Serving: The coated strands are then spread out to cool and set. Once set, Sutarfeni is ready to be served as a sweet dessert.
Taste and Texture: Sutarfeni has a unique and delightful taste with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Its key attraction lies in its incredibly thin and delicate texture, which almost melts in the mouth.
Occasions: Sutarfeni is commonly served during festivals, special occasions, and celebrations in Gujarat. It is also a popular treat in sweet shops and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Overall, Sutarfeni is a cherished and exquisite sweet from Gujarat that showcases the artistry and culinary skills of Indian sweets makers.