The Thekua prasad is an integral part of Chhath Puja, the festival of devotion and discipline celebrated with grandeur in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. As the most important Chhath prasad, Thekua is prepared with love and offered to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya during the rituals held by riverbanks.
Made with wheat flour, jaggery, ghee, coconut, and fragrant spices, Chhath Puja Thekua is cherished for its simplicity, purity, and authentic flavour. Here’s how you can prepare this traditional sweet at home with the most authentic Chhath Puja Thekua recipe.
What is Thekua?
The thekua is a traditional deep-fried sweet made with whole wheat flour, jaggery, ghee, coconut, and aromatic spices. Prepared as the main Chhath Puja prasad, it is offered to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya during rituals and later shared with family and friends as a symbol of blessings and unity. With its crunchy texture and long shelf life, thekua is not only sacred but also a much-loved delicacy.
In households across Bihar, Jharkhand and UP, it even becomes a staple tea-time snack during the winter months, enjoyed for its wholesome taste and comforting flavours.
Thekua Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Cuisine: Indian (Bihari Traditional)
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Servings: 12–15 pieces
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Calories: ~150–170 kcal per piece (approx.)
Ingredients for Thekua Recipe
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2 cups wheat flour
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1 cup grated jaggery
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Sugar, as per taste
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½ cup grated coconut
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1 teaspoon fennel seeds
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2–3 tablespoons ghee
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½ teaspoon cardamom powder
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Water
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Oil or ghee for deep frying
How to Make Thekua for Chhath Puja
Preparing Thekua at home is simple, but it requires patience and the right technique to get the authentic taste and texture. Follow these steps for the most traditional Chhath puja Thekua recipe.
Step 1: Mix ingredients slowly
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups wheat flour, 1 cup grated jaggery, ½ cup grated coconut, 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, ½ teaspoon cardamom powder, and sugar as per taste. Mix gently so the jaggery blends evenly with the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Add ghee spoon by spoon
Add 2–3 tablespoons ghee gradually. Rub the mixture between your palms until it turns coarse, which helps the Thekua become rich and flavourful.
Step 3: Add water carefully
Pour water spoon by spoon and knead the mixture into a stiff dough. Avoid making it too soft, as Thekua dough should be firm for proper frying.
Step 4: Shape the Thekuas
Divide the dough into small balls, flatten slightly, and press them into greased wooden moulds for traditional patterns. If moulds are unavailable, use a fork to create simple designs.
Step 5: Fry on medium flame
Heat oil or ghee in a kadhai. Fry the Thekuas in small batches on medium flame until they turn golden brown and crisp.
Your authentic Chhath prasad Thekua is ready to serve and offer with devotion.
Tips and Tricks for Authentic Chhath Puja Thekua Recipe
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Adding a little maida or suji makes Thekua more khasta (crispy).
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Enhance taste with dry fruits like cashews, almonds, or raisins.
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Fry on low to medium flame, not high, to prevent the outer layer from browning too quickly.
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Grease the mould before pressing dough to prevent sticking.
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If Thekua cracks slightly on the sides while moulding, it means the dough consistency is perfect.
Wipro Appliances- The Perfect Festive Companion
Preparing Chhath Puja Thekua as prasad requires steady heat and careful frying, and the Wipro Vesta Radiant Induction Cooktop (2200W, Black) is the perfect partner for this task. Its 2200W high power ensures faster heating, while the 8 pre-set Indian menus make versatile cooking simple. The crystal glass plate adds elegance and easy cleaning, and the digital touch controls allow precise temperature control for Thekua frying. With cool touch surface and energy-efficient design it saves up to 4x more energy than traditional stoves.
Wipro Appliances proves just as useful in everyday cooking as it is in festive preparations, making traditional recipes both safe and convenient.
Conclusion
Thekua is the heart of Chhath Puja prasad, bringing families together in devotion and tradition. This rustic delicacy, prepared with wheat flour, jaggery, ghee, and coconut, reflects the purity and simplicity of the festival. By following the authentic Thekua recipe and preparing it as part of your Chhath Puja Thekua offerings, you can honour age-old customs with ease.
With the Wipro Vesta Radiant Induction Cooktop, making Thekua becomes convenient, safe, and efficient, allowing you to enjoy both authenticity and modern comfort while keeping the festive spirit alive.
FAQ
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Why is Thekua offered during Chhath Puja?
Thekua is considered sacred Chhath prasad, made with pure, simple ingredients symbolising devotion and discipline.
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Can sugar replace jaggery in Thekua?
Yes, sugar can be added, but jaggery is more authentic and enhances both taste and aroma.
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How long does Thekua stay fresh?
Thekua remains crisp and edible for up to a week if stored in an airtight container.
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Which appliance ensures perfect frying of Thekua?
The Wipro Vesta Radiant Induction Cooktop offers precise temperature control, making frying Thekua easier and safer.