Homemade Gulab Jamuns: Bite-Sized Bliss You Can Easily Create

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Gulab Jamuns: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Gulab jamuns, the beloved Indian dessert of soft dumplings swimming in fragrant syrup, are easier to make than you might think! This recipe yields about 20-25 jamuns, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself, we won't judge).



Cultural Significance:

More than just a dessert, gulab jamuns are deeply woven into the fabric of Indian culture. They symbolize celebration, prosperity, and sweetness. They are offered to deities during religious festivals, exchanged as gifts on special occasions, and prepared with love for family gatherings. The mere sight of gulab jamuns arranged on a plate can evoke feelings of joy, warmth, and togetherness.









Ingredients:

For the Dough:

✦1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
✦1/2 cup milk powder
✦1/4 cup ghee, melted
✦1/4 teaspoon baking powder
✦1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
    Pinch of salt
✦2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed)


For the Syrup:

✦1 cup sugar
✦1/2 cup water
✦3 green cardamom pods, crushed
✦2 cloves
✦1/4 teaspoon rosewater

✦1/4 teaspoon saffron strands (optional)

For Frying:

✦Vegetable oil or ghee

Instructions:

1.Make the dough:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk powder, baking powder, cardamom powder, and salt.

2.Add the melted 

ghee and mix well until it resembles breadcrumbs.

3.Gradually add milk, 

1 tablespoon at a time, kneading until you get a soft, pliable dough that doesn't stick to your hands. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

4.Prepare the syrup: 

In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, cardamom pods, cloves, and saffron (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup reaches a one-string consistency (a thin strand stretches between your fingers when you pinch it). Remove from heat and stir in rosewater.

5.Shape the jamuns: 

Divide the dough into equal portions and roll them into smooth balls. You can make a small indentation in the center of each ball (optional).

6.Heat the oil: 

Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan or kadai to medium-high heat (around 170°C). Check the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough; it should sizzle gently and rise to the surface.

7.Fry the jamuns: 

Gently drop the jamuns into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pan.

8.Soak in syrup: 

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried jamuns directly into the warm syrup. Allow them to soak for at least 2 hours, or overnight for even deeper flavor.

9.Serve: 

Garnish with chopped nuts (pistachios or almonds are popular choices) and enjoy warm or chilled.

Tips:

✦Use full-fat milk powder for a richer taste.

✦Don't over-knead the dough, as this can make the jamuns tough.

✦Maintain the correct oil temperature while frying to prevent the jamuns from burning or becoming greasy.

✦For a richer flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of khoa (dried milk solids) to the dough.

✦Experiment with different rosewater flavors like orange blossom or kewra for a unique twist.

✦Store leftover gulab jamuns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.



With these simple steps and a little love, you'll be creating melt-in-your-mouth gulab jamuns that will impress your family and friends!

More Desserts Recipes:

Keto brownies

Red Velvet Cookies