Shakarpara

         When  it was finally time to take  our new bamboo strainer for a test drive, we decided to go with a time tested recipe in our family and make some good old shakarparas or shankarpuri . Since some of us like it sweet and some savory we decided to make some of both..and to say the strainer performed really well would be an understatement! 

            It had a good feel and weight to it without being cumbersome or awkward and we are letting it take the credit  for this melting in the mouth, crunchy and delicious snack. 

Sweet Shankarpara :

All purpose flour/Maida: 2 cups

Wheat flour: 2cups

Hot oil: 2 tbsp

Oil: to deep fry

 Confectionery sugar & elachi pdr mix : 6-8 tbsp

Mix the above ingredients in water (other than oil to deep fry and confectionery sugar). Knead for 5 minutes till soft. Roll the dough into a 5 inch circle . Cut into small diamond shapes using a pastry cutter. Fry in oil on medium heat till brown and crisp.  Let it cool, sprinkle the confectionery sugar  generously and mix so it coats all the diamonds. Cool and store in an airtight container.

Savoury Shankarpara

All purpose flour/Maida: 2 cups
Wheat flour: 2 cups
Hot oil: 2 tbsp
Salt: to taste
Green chili : 4-5 finely chopped
Cilantro: small bunch finely cut
Curry leaves: 3-4 finely chopped
Oil: to deep fry
Mix the above ingredients in water (other than oil to deep fry). Knead for 5 minutes till soft. Roll the dough into a 5 inch circle . Cut into small diamond shapes using a pastry cutter. Fry in oil on medium heat till brown and crisp. Cool and store in an airtight container. Enjoy!! Nothing like home made snacks!!