| Anarsa | |
| Country: | India |
| Region: | Bihar(Gaya), Maharashtra |
| Course: | Dessert |
| Main Ingredient: | Jaggery, rice, poppy seed, ghee |
Anarsa or Hilsa is an Indian rice-based biscuit. It is commonly associated with the Hindu festival of Diwali in Maharashtra and Bihar, along with other special occasions.[1] [2] [3] Its ingredients include jaggery (unrefined cane sugar), rice, poppy seed and ghee (clarified butter).
Anarasha, which means "without corruption" or "eternal" in Sanskrit, is the root of the name "Anarsa. The word Anarasha also denotes cleanness timelessness and absence of decay.[4]
In Indian traditions, particularly in the country's north and west, it has a profound and significant cultural significance. This classic treat has a symbolic connection to cultural heritage, festival celebration, and symbol of prosperity.[5]
Anarsas are made from soaked powdered rice, ground, and mixed with jaggery to create a dough which matures for 4-5 days and is then rolled in white poppy seeds, pressed into rounds, and fried. The disks are fried poppy-coated side first.[6]
In a variation from the standard recipe, a banana is added to the rice flour base.[7] The Bihari variation of anarsa tends to be rounder and ball-shaped as opposed to the flatter one in Maharashtra.[8]