Gulab Jamun

Prep Time:

25 Minutes

Cook Time:

20 Minutes

Serves:

4 Servings

Level:

Beginner

About the Recipe

Gulab Jamun is one of India’s most beloved and iconic sweets. These deep-fried milk-solid dumplings are soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup infused with cardamom, rose water, or saffron. Soft, spongy, and irresistibly rich, Gulab jamuns are traditionally served warm and enjoyed during weddings, festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Holi, or as a decadent dessert after meals.

Ingredients

1 cup khoya (Mawa)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (Maida)
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
2 tablespoons milk (or as needed)
Oil or ghee (for deep frying)
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2-3 drops of rose water (optional)
Chopped nuts (for garnish, optional)

Preparation

Steps to make Gulab Jamun: Make dough, form balls, fry, make syrup, soak, and serve. Illustrated guide with utensils and ingredients. — A step-by-step illustration of how to make Gulab Jamun, from preparing the dough and forming balls, to frying, making sugar syrup, soaking, and serving this delicious Indian dessert.

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
Add cardamom powder and a few drops of rose water if desired.
Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. The syrup should be slightly sticky, but not too thick.
Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking soda.
Add ghee to the dry ingredients and mix well until crumbly.
Gradually add milk, a little at a time, and knead to form a soft, smooth dough. The dough should not be sticky.
Let the dough rest for about 10-15 minutes, covered with a damp cloth.

Step 3: Shape the Gulab Jamuns

Divide the dough into small equal portions (about 15-20 grams each).
Roll each portion into a smooth ball, ensuring there are no cracks.

Step 4: Heat the Oil for Frying

In a deep frying pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat.
To check the temperature, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should rise to the surface slowly.

Step 5: Fry the Gulab Jamuns

Carefully add the shaped Gulab jamuns into the hot oil, a few at a time. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Fry them on low to medium heat, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides.
Remove the fried Gulab jamuns using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Step 6: Soak in Sugar Syrup

While the Gulab jamuns are still warm, gently place them in the prepared sugar syrup.
Let them soak for at least 1-2 hours, allowing them to absorb the syrup and become soft.

Step 7: Serve

Once soaked, transfer the Gulab jamuns to a serving dish.
Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.