Sindhi Praghree

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Dough (35 minutes)

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of maida and 0.25 tsp of salt.
   • Add 0.25 cup of melted ghee. Rub the ghee into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This process, called 'moyan', is crucial for a flaky texture.
   • Gradually add lukewarm water and knead to form a firm, smooth dough. It should be stiffer than chapati dough.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2

   Prepare the Khoya Filling (10 minutes)

   • In a non-stick pan over low heat, gently roast the crumbled khoya for 2-3 minutes until it becomes aromatic and slightly loosens up. Be careful not to brown it.
   • Transfer the khoya to a bowl and allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
   • Once cooled, add the powdered sugar, chopped almonds, chopped pistachios, and cardamom powder. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. 3

   Create the Layering Paste 'Satha' (2 minutes)

   • In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp of ghee and 3 tbsp of maida until you have a smooth, creamy paste. This paste will create the distinct layers in the pastry.
4. 4

   Roll and Layer the Dough (15 minutes)

   • After resting, knead the dough for one minute. Divide it into two equal portions.
   • Take one portion and roll it out on a clean, large surface into a very thin rectangle, as thin as you can manage without tearing.
   • Spread half of the prepared 'satha' paste evenly over the entire surface of the rolled dough.
   • Starting from one of the longer sides, roll the sheet up tightly into a firm log.
   • Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices. You will see a beautiful swirl of layers in each slice.
   • Repeat the process with the second portion of dough and the remaining 'satha'.
5. 5

   Shape the Praghree (15 minutes)

   • Take one slice of the log and place it cut-side down on your work surface. Gently press it flat with your palm.
   • Carefully roll it into a small circle or oval, about 3-4 inches in diameter, ensuring the layers remain visible.
   • Place about 1 tablespoon of the khoya filling in the center of the rolled disc.
   • Fold the disc in half to form a semi-circle (like a gujiya). Press the edges firmly to seal completely. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative seal.
   • Repeat with all the remaining slices and filling.
6. 6

   Deep Fry the Praghree (25 minutes)

   • Heat 3 cups of ghee in a deep kadai or pan over low heat. The ghee should be just warm, not hot. To test, drop a tiny piece of dough; it should sink and then rise slowly with gentle bubbles.
   • Carefully slide 3-4 praghris into the ghee, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry on a consistently low flame for 12-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. This slow frying process is key to cooking the inner layers and achieving a perfect crispness.
   • Once they are golden brown and crisp on all sides, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain excess ghee.
7. 7

   Prepare the Sugar Syrup (10 minutes)

   • While the praghris are frying, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 0.5 cup of water.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a one-string consistency. To check, cool a drop slightly and press it between your thumb and forefinger; a single thread should form when you pull them apart.
   • Stir in the lemon juice (to prevent crystallization) and optional saffron strands. Turn off the heat.
8. 8

   Glaze and Garnish (8 minutes)

   • Ensure both the fried praghris and the sugar syrup are warm (not hot).
   • Dip each praghree into the warm syrup for about 30-60 seconds, using a spoon to coat it evenly.
   • Remove the glazed praghree and place it back on the wire rack to let any excess syrup drip off.
   • Immediately garnish with extra chopped pistachios.
   • Allow the praghris to cool completely. The sugar glaze will set as they cool. Store in an airtight container.