Imarti, also known as Jalebi, is a popular Indian sweet made of fermented batter that is deep-fried and then soaked in sugar syrup. The phonetic transcription for this word is /ɪˈmɑːti/ which can be further broken down into individual sounds as follows: /ɪ/-the short ‘i’ sound, /ˈmɑː/-the long ‘a’ sound, and /ti/-the ‘t’ sound followed by the short ‘i’ sound. Despite its spelling being unique, this delicious dessert is well-known for its sweet taste and stunning circular pattern.
Imarti is a popular sweet delicacy originating from Indian cuisine. It is a traditional dessert commonly prepared during special occasions and festivals.
Imarti is made using fermented urad dal (black gram) batter. The batter is a mixture of ground lentils, semolina, and saffron, which gives it a distinct yellow color. This mixture is then transferred into a piping bag, with a special nozzle at one end called jangiri. The batter is piped directly into hot oil in a circular pattern, creating a spiral-shaped, syrup-absorbing fritter.
After deep-frying until golden brown, the imartis are taken out and immediately soaked in sugar syrup. The syrup, often flavored with cardamom or rose water, is made by dissolving sugar in water or milk. The imarti is left to absorb the syrup, ensuring a soft and delectable texture.
Imartis are often garnished with chopped pistachios, almonds, or desiccated coconut, which add additional flavors and give them an appealing appearance. The end result is a sweet treat that is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with syrupy goodness.
Imarti is typically served chilled or at room temperature, making it a refreshing dessert option. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often accompanied by a scoop of ice cream or a glass of milk. Its unique taste and intricate design make imarti a popular choice for celebrations and a delightful part of Indian cuisine.
The word "imarti" is derived from the Hindi language. It comes from the word "imarti" (इमरती), which is a traditional Indian sweet made from lentil or urad dal batter deep-fried in a spiral shape and then soaked in sugar syrup. The word "imarti" itself originates from the Arabic word "amriti", which means a type of sweet or dessert. The dish has a rich history in Indian cuisine and is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.