Also known as
Singhare ka atta

What is water chestnut flour, shingoda flour?

Water chestnut flour is made from dried, ground water chestnuts. The nuts are boiled, peeled and then ground into flour. The flour, which is actually a starch rather than flour is white cream in colour.
Its primary use is as a thickening agent and to make batters for deep frying in Indian and Asian cooking. When used as a thickener, water chestnut flour is usually stirred into water first before it is added to hot liquids and sauces. This technique reduces the formation of lumps that may otherwise occur (similar to cornstarch). Foods that are to be fried can be dredged in water chestnut flour to create a coating on the food. Water chestnut flour is available in some large food stores, natural and health food stores, and in Asian markets.

How to select
• Select water chestnut flour, which is white and powdery, without any lumps or discoloration.
• Check the expiry date before buying flour.

Culinary uses of water chestnut flour, shingoda flour in Indian cooking

Indian fasting recipes using water chestnut flour

1. singhada halwa, sheera recipe | farali singhare atte ka halwa | vrat, fasting sheera | water chestnut flour halwa | with step by step images.

singhada halwa, sheera is a quick and easy Indian mithai with a touch of rich nuts. Learn how to make farali singhare atte ka halwa.

singhada halwa is made from singhoda, ghee sugar and cardamom powder.

This farali singhare atte ka halwa was indigenously once made in every household in the past. This is a treat for elders who usually opt for fasting and are always looking for soft, easily chewable food which is palatable at the same time.

The use of ghee and the addition of cardamom powder give the sheera a very rich aroma, which is typical of most Indian sweets. Garnish vrat, fasting sheeragenerously with nuts, to add to the sumptuousness of this delightful dessert.

2. Bhavnagari chillies for fasting : This evergreen favourite is made of Bhavnagari chillies, flavoured with sesame seeds and cumin seeds. Besan is replaced with waterchestnut flour, to make this accompaniment qualify for a fast.

• Water chestnut flour can be used to make pancakes, puris and chapattis especially on fasting days when cereals are shunned.
• Their main culinary usage is as a thickener and they are used to batter-fry paneer and vegetables.
• The flour may also be used to make bread, cakes and cookies.

How to store water chestnut flour, shingoda flour
Water chestnut flour keeps well in a sealed container in a cool, dry, and dark location.

Health benefits
• Water chestnut flour is a good source of potassium and fibre.
• It is low in sodium and fat.
• However, water chestnut flour is high in carbohydrates.

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