Kusli

An authentic snack recipe from Madhya Pradesh, India — with exact measurements and step-by-step instructions.

Traditional Kusli from Madhya Pradesh, India
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The Story Behind the Dish

Kusli is a treasured snack dish from Madhya Pradesh, India — a reflection of the region's ingredients, climate, and culinary traditions passed down through generations.

Ingredients

0/11 gathered

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: dry-roast sesame seeds and poppy seeds in a pan over medium heat for 2 minutes until fragrant. Mix with grated coconut, grated jaggery, and cardamom powder. Stir until the jaggery softens and binds the mixture. Set aside.

  2. In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, semolina, and a pinch of salt. Add ghee and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Gradually add warm water and knead into a firm, smooth dough — slightly stiffer than chapati dough. Cover and rest for 15 minutes.

  4. Divide the dough into 12–14 equal balls. Roll each ball into a small circle about 8 cm in diameter.

  5. Place a heaped teaspoon of the coconut-jaggery filling in the center of each circle.

  6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal, then crimp the edges with a fork or pinch decoratively to ensure a tight seal.

  7. Heat oil in a deep kadai over medium heat (about 160°C — not too hot).

  8. Fry the kusli in batches for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

  9. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  10. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Kusli can be served warm or at room temperature.

Cook

30 mins

Serves

4 servings

Level

Medium