– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
– A few saffron strands (optional)
For frying:
Ghee or oil for deep frying
Prepare the Dough:
1. In a mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour (maida) and ghee. Mix well until the ghee is well incorporated into the flour.
2. Gradually add water and knead to form a stiff dough. The dough should not be too soft.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
1. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
Making the Khaja:
1. Divide the dough into equal-sized balls.
2, Roll out each ball into a thin, rectangular shape.
3. Fold one-third of the rectangle from the top towards the center, then fold the bottom third over the first fold, making layers.
4. Roll out the folded dough again into a thin rectangle.
5. Repeat the folding process once more.
6. Roll out the dough one final time into a thin rectangle.
Frying:
1. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the rolled-out dough.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
4. Remove the fried khaja from the oil and drain excess oil by placing them on a paper towel.