Double ka meetha, also known as "Shahi Tukda," is a popular Indian dessert, especially in the Hyderabad region. It is a sweet and indulgent dish made from bread slices, sugar syrup, ghee (clarified butter), and flavored with cardamom and saffron. Here's how you can make it:
Ingredients:
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- A few saffron strands
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
For the Bread Slices:
- 4-6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
- Ghee for frying
For Garnish:
- Chopped nuts (such as almonds and pistachios)
- A pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by making the sugar syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Bring it to a boil and then simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it forms a slightly thick syrup.
- Add saffron strands and cardamom powder to the syrup, and then remove it from heat. Keep it warm.
2. Cut the bread slices:
- Trim the edges of the bread slices and cut them into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.
3. Fry the bread slices:
- Heat ghee in a pan or a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the bread slices until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Remove them from the pan and place them on paper towels to remove excess ghee.
4. Assemble the Double Ka Meetha:
- Dip the fried bread slices into the warm sugar syrup for a few seconds on both sides, ensuring they absorb the syrup.
- Place them on a serving plate.
5. Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts and saffron strands soaked in warm milk over the soaked bread slices.
6. Serve:
- You can serve Double Ka Meetha warm or at room temperature. Some people also like to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Double Ka Meetha is a delightful dessert with a rich, sweet, and aromatic flavor. It's a perfect way to end a traditional Indian meal or to celebrate special occasions.