Gulab Jamun Recipe Tips

The Ultimate Gulab Jamun Recipe

Gulab Jamun, one of the most beloved desserts in South Asia, is a classic treat seved during festivals, celebration and family gathering. These soft, melt in your mouth milk based dumpling soaked in fragrant sugar syrup are simply irresistible. Here's a step by step guide to making authentic gulab jamun at home.

Ingredients:

For the Gulab Jamun,

. 1 cup milk powder

. 2 tbsp all purpose flour (maida)

. 2 tbsp ghee or unsalted butter (melted)

. 2-3 tbsp milk (for kneading)

. A pinch of baking soda

For the Sugar Syrup:

. 1 1/2 cups suger

. 1 1/2 cups water

. 3-4 cardamom pods (crushed)

. A few strands of saffron

. 1 tbsp rose water or kewra water

For Frying:

. Ghee or oil (for deep frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:

. In a medium sized saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium flame and stir until the sugar dissolves

. Add crushed cardamom pods, saffron and rose water or kewra water

. Let the syrup simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly sticky. Remove from heat and set aside

2. Make the Dough:

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

. Add melted ghee and gently mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs

. Gradually add milk, 1 tbsp at a time and knead into a smooth, soft dough. Do not over knead, as the dough should be pliable but not sticky

3. Shape the Balls:

. Divide the dough into small equal portion

. Roll each portion into a smooth ball, ensuring there are no cracks. Cracks may cause the Gulab Jamun to break during frying

4. Fry the Gulab Jamun:

. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over low medium heat

. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough. It should rise slowly without browning immediately

. Fry the balls in small batches, stirring gently to ensure even browning. Cook until they turn golden brown

. Remove the fried Gulab Jamuns with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels

5. Soak in Sugar Syrup:

. Gently transfer the fried Gulab Jamuns into the warm sugar syrup

. Let them soak for at least 2 hours, allowing them to absorb the syrup and become soft juicy

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Gulab Jamun warm, at room temperture or chilled. Garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds for added flavor and texture. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience!

Tips for Perfect Gulab Jamun:

1. Consistency of Dough: Ensure the dough is soft and smooth, over kneading or using too much liquid can make the Gulab Jamuns dense or lead to cracks

2. Frying Temperature: Always fry on low medium heat to allow the Gulab Jamuns to cook thoroughly without burning or remaining raw inside

3. Sugar Syrup: Keep the syrup warm but not boiling when soaking the Gulab Jamuns

Enjoy your homemade Gulab Jamun and savor the sweetness of this timeless dessert!