Madatha Kaja is not just a dessert — it’s a nostalgic indulgence that blends crispiness, syrupy sweetness, and traditional craftsmanship. Originating from the culinary heritage of Andhra Pradesh, especially from the town of Kakinada, this layered sweet has made its way into celebrations, gift boxes, and hearts all over India.
Let’s dive into what makes Madatha Kaja so unique — from its ingredients and nutritional value to its price and availability online.
🌟 What is Madatha Kaja?
Madatha Kaja (మడత కాజా in Telugu) is a crispy, layered Indian sweet that is deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup. The name “Madatha” means “folded” in Telugu, referring to its intricate folds or layers that give it its signature texture.
Unlike other syrupy sweets, Kaja has a flaky exterior with a juicy center — a combination that makes every bite memorable.
🥣 What is Madatha Kaja Made Of?
The ingredients are simple, but the technique is key:
Maida (refined flour)
Ghee or Dalda
Sugar (for syrup)
Cardamom (optional for flavor)
Baking soda (very little, for puffiness)
Oil or ghee for deep frying
These ingredients are mixed, kneaded into a dough, rolled, layered, and then deep-fried till golden. Once fried, the hot Kajas are dipped in warm sugar syrup to absorb the sweetness.
🏡 Where is Madatha Kaja Famous?
Kakinada, a city in Andhra Pradesh, is most famous for Madatha Kaja. In fact, the sweet is often known as Kakinada Kaja and is sold at iconic sweet shops across the region. Its fame has also spread to neighboring states like Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
🍬 Madatha Kaja Nutritional Value (Per 1 piece ~40g)
| Nutrient | Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190–220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sugars | 18g |
🔔 Note: Being a fried and sugary sweet, moderation is key. It’s best enjoyed as a festive or occasional treat.
🌍 Madatha Kaja in Different Languages
Telugu: మడత కాజా (Madatha Kaja)
Tamil: மடதா காஜா
Hindi: मड़ता काजा
Kannada: ಮಡತಾ ಕಾಜಾ
English: Layered Sweet Kaja
💸 Madatha Kaja Prices (Per Kg – Approx.)
Prices can vary by quality and region. Here’s a general idea:
| Location | Price per Kg |
|---|---|
| Kakinada | ₹280 – ₹350 |
| Hyderabad | ₹300 – ₹400 |
| Chennai | ₹350 – ₹450 |
| Online Stores | ₹400 – ₹500 |
Pro tip: Buying directly from Kakinada shops (offline or online) can get you authentic taste at a better price.
🍽️ Madatha Kaja Recipe (Homemade Style)
Ingredients:
Maida – 1 cup
Ghee – 2 tbsp
Baking soda – a pinch
Water – as needed
Oil – for frying
Sugar – 1 cup
Water – ½ cup (for syrup)
Cardamom – 2 pods (optional)
Method:
Mix maida, ghee, baking soda, and water to form a soft dough. Let it rest.
Roll out the dough thinly and apply ghee-maida paste between folds to create layers.
Cut into rectangles and roll/fold into desired shape.
Deep fry until golden brown.
Prepare sugar syrup (1-string consistency).
Dip the fried kaja in warm syrup for 5 minutes.
Let them dry slightly — and enjoy!
📦 Madatha Kaja Online
Craving the original Kakinada Kaja but live far away? Many Andhra-based sweet shops deliver authentic Madatha Kaja online, including:
MeenakshiRecipe.com
Amazon (search “Kakinada Madatha Kaja”)
Local Andhra sweet brands with e-commerce sites
Tip: Always check freshness, shelf life, and reviews before buying online.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many calories are in one Madatha Kaja?
A: On average, one piece (40–50g) has 190–220 calories.
Q2: Is Madatha Kaja gluten-free?
A: No, it is made with maida (refined wheat flour).
Q3: Can I store Madatha Kaja at home?
A: Yes, it stays fresh for 7–10 days in an airtight container.
Q4: Is it available outside Andhra?
A: Yes, especially in metro cities and online stores.
Q5: Is Madatha Kaja vegan?
A: It can be, if ghee is replaced with vegetable fat.
✨ Final Bite
Madatha Kaja is more than just a sweet — it’s a taste of Andhra tradition, folded into golden layers and soaked in love (and sugar syrup!). Whether you’re enjoying it for the first time or reliving childhood memories, this iconic dessert is worth every crispy, syrupy bite.
📦 Order Online Today and bring home the magic of Kakinada’s favorite sweet.