Chiroti

 

Chiroti – Karnataka’s Flaky Festival Delight That Melts in Your Mouth

In the grand celebration of Indian sweets, some desserts are bold and rich, while others are delicate and elegant. Chiroti, a traditional sweet from Karnataka, falls firmly into the latter category. With its paper-thin layers, crispy texture, and sweet dusting of sugar or milk, Chiroti is a royal dessert made for celebrations.

Whether served at weddings or during festivals like Diwali, this golden, flaky treat has long held a special place on Karnataka’s festive plates—and in people’s hearts.

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👑 A Sweet Fit for Kings

Chiroti (also called Padhir Peni in some regions) is believed to have royal origins, often served during feasts and celebrations in South India, especially in Karnataka and parts of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. The name "Chiroti" is derived from the Sanskrit word chira, meaning thin or layered—perfectly describing its structure.

What makes Chiroti truly stand out is its texture: it's light, crisp, and delicately layered, almost like a sweet puff pastry, but fried and often drenched in love (and ghee!).

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🧾 What Goes Into Chiroti?

Making Chiroti is truly an art that requires patience and precision. Here's what goes into this festive favorite:

Main Ingredients:

• Maida (refined flour) – the base for the dough

• Ghee or oil – for layering and deep-frying

• Rice flour – sprinkled between layers to enhance flakiness

• Sugar or powdered sugar – for the final touch

• Cardamom – optional, for extra aroma

In some regions, Chiroti is served with a splash of warm, sweetened milk or badam milk, making it even more indulgent.