Uttarakhand is one of the most popular states in India and there are plenty of tourists that visit it year after year. It’s known for its beautiful mountain ranges, temples, and forests, but it’s also known for its tasty treats, one of which is sweets. Whether you’re from the area or just visiting, you can’t leave without having at least one sweet snack while you’re there! Here are 9 famous sweets from Uttarakhand that should definitely be on your list of treats to try while you’re in the area.
1) Bal Mithai
A popular sweet from the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Bal Mithai is made from khoya (a solidified form of milk), sugar, and covered in a thick layer of chocolate. The khoya is first fried in ghee, then mixed with sugar and cooked until it forms a thick paste. Once cooled, this mixture is formed into small balls and coated in melted chocolate. Bal Mithai has a unique taste that is both sweet and salty, with a slightly bitter aftertaste from the chocolate.
2) Singori
A type of flattened doughnut, singori is a popular sweet snack in Uttarakhand. It is made by deep frying dough that has been flattened and then dipped in sugar syrup. Singori can be found in most sweet shops across the state. They are often eaten for breakfast or as an evening snack.
3) Roat
A type of sweet dumpling made with maida flour and khoya, Roat is a specialty of Almora. It is deep-fried and then soaked in sugar syrup. The outer layer is crispy while the inside is soft and mouth-watering. The best time to eat this is during winter as it can warm you up and keep you company on those cold days.
4) Khajoor
A popular sweet from Uttarakhand, khajoor is made from dates and is often served at weddings and other special occasions. Khajoor is a rich, sticky, and sweet dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
5) Singal
A popular sweet in Uttarakhand, Singal is made of flour, ghee, khoya, and sugar. It's a deep-fried dessert that's often served during festivals and celebrations. The dough is rolled out into thin sheets, cut into desired shapes, and then fried until golden brown. Once it's cooled, the singal is soaked in sugar syrup for added sweetness.
6) Arsa
Arsa is a popular sweet dish from the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is made with rice flour, ghee, sugar, and milk, and is often served during festivals and shadi’s and celebrations. This dish is sure to make your mouth water!
7) Gujia
A gujia is a fried pastry that is popular in North India, especially during the Hindu festival of Holi. It is made with a dough of maida flour, khoya, sugar, and ghee. The dough is then filled with a filling of your choice (usually dry fruits and nuts), shaped into a dumpling, and fried. Gujiyas are usually served with rabri or kheer.
8) Pahadi Halwa
Pahadi halwa is a traditional sweet from the hilly regions of Uttarakhand. It is made with flour, ghee, sugar, and nuts, and has a rich, nutty flavor. This halwa is often served at weddings and other special occasions. There are many varieties that use different ingredients such as pistachios, cashews, almonds, or pumpkin seeds.
9) Jhangore ki Kheer
Jhangore ki kheer is a traditional dessert made with milk, rice, and jhangora (a type of millet). It's often served during festivals and celebrations, and is said to bring good luck. This kheer is deliciously creamy and sweet, with a nutty flavor from the jhangora. It's definitely worth trying if you're in Uttarakhand!
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the top 9 famous sweets from Uttarakhand that will make your mouth water. If you have a sweet tooth, then you must try all of these delicious desserts! What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Uttarakhand today!