ry Fruit Pootharekulu is a rich and indulgent variation of the traditional Andhra sweet, Pootharekulu (also known as paper sweet). This version incorporates dry fruits like cashews, almonds, pistachios, and sometimes raisins, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the delicate sweet.

Description:

• Appearance: The sweet is wrapped in thin, transparent layers of rice starch that resemble paper, giving it its characteristic name ("Pootha" means coating, and "Rekulu" means sheets in Telugu). These paper-thin layers enclose the filling of dry fruits, sugar, or jaggery, along with ghee.

• Ingredients:

  • Rice starch: Thin, wafer-like sheets made from rice flour.
  • Ghee: Used generously between the layers for a rich flavor.
  • Dry fruits: Typically cashews, almonds, and pistachios, sometimes chopped into small pieces and roasted.
  • Jaggery: Adds sweetness to the filling.

• Taste: The combination of crunchy dry fruits, crispy rice starch layers, and the richness of ghee and sugar creates a unique balance of textures and flavors. The dry fruits add a nutty, crunchy element, while the rice sheets provide a melt-in-the-mouth sensation.

• Texture: The outer layer is light and crispy, while the inside is a mixture of sweet, slightly chewy dry fruits that offer bursts of crunchiness with each bite.

Dry Fruit Pootharekulu is often made during festivals, weddings, and special occasions. It's also a popular gift during celebrations like Diwali or Sankranti due to its festive appeal and indulgent ingredients.