Hathazari’s own winter treat

The popular sweet is in such high demand that one may even find themselves waiting in a queue for 10-15 minutes before getting the chance to buy one.

Everyone knows of "jilapis", but a "chaler jilapi"? Perhaps not many have heard of it, and for good reason.

Its claim to fame is not something you can find on Google, but this specific type of jilapi is noted for its unique recipe and taste. While in Chattogram's Hathazari, you cannot miss the taste of this mouthwatering, authentic jilapi, made of rice powder.

According to locals, the jilapi was first invented by a local vendor from Sarkarhat, an area from North Chattogram. Later, the recipe spread to nearby areas.

The sweet fragrance that pervades the air in neighbourhoods where a vendor makes this jilapi cannot be missed.

The shops that sell these winter delicacies aren't very fancy or well-decorated. They're mostly quite small. But during the season, their premises cannot contain the crowd.

Some vendors from Sarkarhat start preparing the jilapi in the morning, but they're usually sold from the afternoon till 11:00pm. The popular sweet is in such high demand that one may even find themselves waiting in a queue for 10-15 minutes before getting the chance to buy one.

WHAT'S SO SPECIAL ABOUT CHALER JILAPI?

The jilapi is made out of rice powder and molasses. The powder is first mixed with hot water, with the paste then placed inside a piece of cloth with a small opening. The paste is poured on to the boiling oil and fried until it turns reddish. Over this, a syrup made of molasses is then poured.

But this is how all jilapis are made. According to locals, what makes the chaler jilapi so special lies in the hands of its artisans from Hathazari.

Each jilapi can weight up to a kg or even more, but they're also made in small chunks for those who want to try it before purchasing a large amount. The big jilapi go for Tk 150 per kg.

Sabbir Khan, a seasonal fruit vendor, has been selling this jilapi in winter for the past 15 years. "I learned it from my father about 20 years ago. It's only suitable for winter because the batter stays good for a long time," he told this correspondent.

Bengali sweets, apart from their delicious flavours, also come with history. If you're looking for a special treat that encapsulates the history of North Chattogram, the chaler jilapi is a must-try.