Gulab Jamun Recipe
Ingredients you'll need:
For the Gulab Jamun:
- 1 cup milk powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- A pinch of cardamom powder
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (approximately)
- Oil or ghee, for frying
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- A few saffron strands (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and saffron strands (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Add cardamom powder and continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes to create a slightly thick sugar syrup. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough for Gulab Jamun
1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cardamom powder.
2. Add ghee to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add milk, a little at a time, and knead to form a smooth and soft dough. The dough should not be too sticky or too dry.
Step 3: Shape and Form the Gulab Jamun
1. Divide the dough into small portions and roll them between your palms to form smooth balls. The balls should be free of cracks.
2. Make sure there are no cracks on the surface of the balls, as they might break while frying.
Step 4: Fry the Gulab Jamun
1. Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan over medium-low heat. The temperature should be around 300-325°F (150-163°C).
2. Carefully slide the prepared dough balls into the hot oil one by one, without overcrowding the pan.
3. Gently fry the balls, turning them occasionally, until they turn golden brown. Fry them on a low to medium flame to ensure they cook evenly and don't remain uncooked inside.
Step 5: Soak in Sugar Syrup
1. Once the Gulab Jamun are golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them directly to the warm sugar syrup.
2. Let the Gulab Jamun soak in the syrup for at least 1-2 hours to absorb the sweetness and become soft.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. After soaking, the Gulab Jamun will be soft and spongy, filled with the sugar syrup.
2. Serve the Gulab Jamun warm or at room temperature. You can garnish them with chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
1. Your homemade Gulab Jamun is ready to be enjoyed. These sweet, syrupy dumplings are a beloved dessert in Indian cuisine.
Gulab Jamun is often served during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions in India. The combination of spongy dumplings and fragrant sugar syrup makes it a delightful treat.