By Chiroti is a classic South Indian sweet, especially popular in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. It looks similar to a flaky poori but is much lighter, crispier, and layered. Chiroti is mildly sweet and usually served with powdered sugar or sugar syrup. It is commonly prepared during weddings, festivals, and special occasions.
Below is a clear, traditional step-by-step Chiroti recipe, explained in detail so you can make perfect crispy chirotis at home.
Ingredients (Makes 12–15 Chirotis)
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour (maida) – 2 cups
- Salt – a pinch
- Ghee – 2 tablespoons
- Water – as required (to knead)
For Layering (Paste)
- Rice flour – 3 tablespoons
- Ghee – 3 tablespoons
For Frying
- Oil or ghee – for deep frying
For Serving
- Powdered sugar – as required
(or sugar syrup)
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Take all-purpose flour in a large mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt and ghee. Mix well by rubbing the ghee into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
Add water little by little and knead into a soft, smooth dough, similar to chapati dough. Do not make it very tight.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. Resting is important to make rolling easier and to develop layers properly.
Step 2: Preparing the Layering Paste
In a small bowl, mix rice flour and ghee to make a smooth, thick paste. Ensure there are no lumps.
This paste is the key to creating the flaky layers in chiroti.
Step 3: Rolling and Layering the Dough
Divide the rested dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin chapati (as thin as possible).
Spread a thin, even layer of the rice flour–ghee paste over one rolled sheet.
Place another rolled sheet on top of it and apply the paste again. Repeat this process with all sheets, stacking them one over the other with paste in between.
Now gently roll the stacked sheets together to seal lightly.
Step 4: Cutting the Chirotis
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the layered dough into strips (1½ inches wide).
Take each strip and gently stretch it slightly. Then roll it loosely from one end to the other (like a ribbon roll). Do not roll tightly.
Press lightly to flatten. This creates the layered chiroti shape.
Keep all shaped chirotis covered with a cloth.
Step 5: Frying the Chirotis
Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan on medium flame. Oil should be hot but not smoking.
Gently slide a few chirotis into the oil. Fry on medium–low flame, turning occasionally.
The chirotis will puff, open into layers, and turn light golden. Fry until crisp and evenly cooked.
Remove and drain on kitchen paper.
Step 6: Sweetening the Chirotis
There are two traditional ways to sweeten chiroti:
Method 1: Powdered Sugar
Once chirotis cool slightly, sprinkle powdered sugar generously on top.
Method 2: Sugar Syrup
Prepare one-string sugar syrup and lightly dip the chirotis, then remove immediately. Do not soak.
Most traditional versions prefer powdered sugar, as it keeps chiroti crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chiroti warm or at room temperature
- Traditionally served with powdered sugar + cardamom powder
- Can be enjoyed with milk or coffee
- Popular as a wedding breakfast sweet
Tips for Perfect Chiroti
- Roll dough very thin for better layers
- Rice flour paste must be smooth
- Do not roll chirotis too tightly
- Fry on medium–low flame for crispness
- Avoid over-browning; chiroti should be light golden
Variations You Can Try
- Badam Chiroti – Serve with almond-flavored sugar
- Kesar Chiroti – Add saffron to sugar
- Chocolate Chiroti – Drizzle melted chocolate (modern twist)
- Baked Chiroti – Not traditional but possible for a lighter version
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container
- Stays fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature
- Best consumed fresh for maximum crispiness
Conclusion
Chiroti is a beautiful example of traditional South Indian sweets that rely on technique rather than heavy sweetness. Its delicate layers, crisp texture, and light sweetness make it truly special. Though it looks complicated, with patience and careful layering, you can prepare authentic, wedding-style chirotis at home.
Do Follow Us on Instagram
