Homemade gulab jamun recipe

Making the Sweetest Treat: A Homemade Gulab Jamun Recipe 

Gulab Jamun, the heavenly sweet treat that's a staple at festive occasions and celebrations across India and beyond, is a delectable deep-fried dumpling soaked in a sugary syrup. The name "Gulab Jamun" itself evokes the delightful combination of "gulab," meaning rosewater, and "jamun," referring to a dark berry. In this blog, we'll take you through the steps to create these mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth delights right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Gulab Jamun:

- 1 cup milk powder

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

- 3-4 tablespoons milk (approximately)

- Oil or ghee for frying

For the Sugar Syrup (Chashni):

- 1.5 cups sugar

- 1.5 cups water

- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

- A few saffron strands (optional)

- A few drops of rose water (optional)

Instructions:

**Making the Sugar Syrup (Chashni):**

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

2. Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) for flavor and a beautiful fragrance.

3. Bring the syrup to a boil and then simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it slightly thickens. You don't want a very thick syrup, as it will thicken further as it cools.

4. Remove the sugar syrup from the heat and add a few drops of rose water if you desire. Set the syrup aside.

**Preparing the Gulab Jamun Dough:**

1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking soda. Mix well.

2. Add ghee to the dry ingredients and mix until it resembles breadcrumbs.

3. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, and knead the mixture into a smooth, soft, and slightly sticky dough. Be careful not to over-knead.

**Shaping and Frying the Gulab Jamun:**

1. Heat oil or ghee in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan for frying. The temperature should be around 325-350°F (160-175°C).

2. While the oil is heating, divide the dough into small, equal portions and roll them into smooth, crack-free balls. It's essential to ensure that the dough balls are entirely free of cracks to prevent oil from seeping inside while frying.

3. Carefully slide the rolled dough balls into the hot oil, one or two at a time, depending on the size of your pan.

4. Fry the Gulab Jamun over low to medium heat, gently turning them occasionally until they turn a rich golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

5. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the fried Gulab Jamun from the oil and drain any excess oil on a paper towel.

**Soaking the Gulab Jamun:**

1. While the Gulab Jamun is still warm, gently place them into the prepared sugar syrup.

2. Allow them to soak for a few hours or until they become soft, sweet, and delectable.

Homemade Gulab Jamun is a heartwarming sweet treat that's perfect for festive occasions, special gatherings, or when you're simply craving a taste of India's culinary delights. Making these heavenly, syrup-soaked dumplings from scratch is not as challenging as it may seem. Follow this recipe, and you'll create Gulab Jamun that's sure to impress your family and friends with its exquisite taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Enjoy the sweet moments and savor the delightful taste of these delectable gems!