Gulab Jamun Recipe: A Popular Indian and Pakistani Sweet
Gulab Jamun is one of the most famous and delicious Indian and Pakistani sweets that is usually served at celebrations and parties. This sweet is in the form of soft and golden balls that are soaked in sugar syrup and rose water, and has a sweet and fragrant taste. Similar to this type of dessert or sweet in other countries with the names Lokma in Turkey and Zoolbia in Iran, which have almost the same recipe. These crispy and sweet balls are suitable for snacks, and their sweet aroma and taste are excellent and pleasant with freshly brewed tea.
In addition to its attractive appearance, this sweet is very simple and prepared with few ingredients and does not require much time to cook. So it is the best option for a party or a quick dinner.
Ingredients for Gulab Jamun: Indian sweets
For the dough:
| Wheat flour or soy flour | 1 Cup |
| Milk powder | 2 Tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1/2 Teaspoon |
| Milk (to make the dough) | 1/2 Cup |
| Butter or oil | 2 Tablespoons |
For the syrup:
| Sugar | 2 Cups |
| Water | 1 Cup |
| Rose water | 1 Tablespoon |
| Cardamoms | 2 |
| Saffron strands (optional) | A few |
For frying:
Oil or butter as needed
Step-by-step method for preparing Gulab Jamun
Step 1: Prepare the syrup
- Pour the sugar and water into a saucepan and dissolve over low heat.
- Let the syrup boil and thicken slightly.
- Add the rose water, cardamom and saffron (if using) and remove from heat to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
- Mix the flour, milk powder and baking powder together.
- Add the butter or oil and mix until the dough is smooth.
- Gradually add milk and knead until the dough is soft and pliable, not sticky.
Step 3: Shape the balls
- Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
- Make sure the balls are flat and without cracks so that they do not open up when fried.
Step 4: Fry
- Heat the oil in a deep frying pan (medium heat).
Gently place the balls in the oil and turn until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove the fried balls with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Soak in syrup
- Place the fried balls in the warm syrup.
- Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to fully absorb the syrup.
Gulab Jamun (Indian Sweet Milk Balls)
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Syrup
- In a saucepan, mix sugar and water.
- Heat until the sugar dissolves and the syrup slightly thickens.
- Add rose water, cardamom, and saffron. Turn off the heat and set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a bowl, mix milk powder, flour, and baking powder.
- Add melted butter and slowly pour in milk to make a soft dough.
- Rest the dough for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Divide the dough into small pieces and roll them into smooth balls without cracks.
- Keep them covered with a damp cloth.
- Step 4: Fry the Gulab Jamuns
- Heat oil or ghee over medium-low heat.
- Fry the balls gently until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Step 5: Soak in Syrup
- While the syrup is still warm, add the fried balls.
- Let them soak for 30-60 minutes until soft and juicy.
Golden Tips for Gulab Jamun
- The oil should not be too hot so that the outside of the balls does not burn and the inside does not remain raw.
- The dough should be soft and tender so that the balls become light and delicious.
- You can add a little saffron or food coloring to the syrup for more color and aroma.
- Do not make the syrup too thick, just enough for the balls to soak well.
Serving suggestion
- Indian sweets can be served with vanilla ice cream or cream.
- It can be served hot or cold at celebrations and parties.
- For decoration, sprinkle some powdered cardamom or chopped pistachios on the sweet to make it look and taste more attractive.
Benefits of Gulab Jamun: Indian sweets
- Energizing: The sugar and milk present in Gulab Jamun give the body an instant and enjoyable energy, especially for celebrations and parties.
- Relaxing: Moderate consumption of sweets can create a good feeling and increase serotonin levels.
- Attractive aroma and flavor: The combination of rose water, cardamom and saffron gives you a unique experience of taste and aroma.
Disadvantages of Gulab Jamun: Indian sweets
- High calories: Due to sugar syrup and frying in oil, this sweet is high in calories and its excessive consumption may cause weight gain.
- High fat: The oil and butter in the balls should be consumed with caution by people with heart problems or blood lipids.
- High sugar: Not suitable for diabetics or those who have sugar restrictions.
Conclusion:
Gulab Jamun is an incredibly popular and delicious Indian and Pakistani sweet that you will experience with every bite, a combination of sweet taste, rose water and cardamom aroma, and soft and delicate texture. If you are looking for a festive and party dessert that is both delicious and attractive in appearance, Gulab Jamun is the best choice. Even if you have no international cooking experience, with this simple recipe you can make an authentic and delicious dessert at home and surprise your family and friends.
Get started now, prepare your own golden Gulab Jamun balls and create a memorable taste!
Frequently Asked Questions about Gulab Jamun
-
What is Gulab Jamun made of?
Gulab Jamun is made from milk powder, flour, baking powder, and milk, then fried and soaked in a sweet rose-flavored syrup.
-
What does Gulab Jamun taste like?
It tastes rich, sweet, and aromatic, with a soft texture and the delicate scent of rose water and cardamom.
-
Is Gulab Jamun healthy?
In moderation, yes it provides energy from milk and flour, but it’s high in sugar and fat, so avoid overeating.
-
Why does my Gulab Jamun become hard?
If the oil is too hot or the dough is overmixed, the balls may turn hard outside and remain uncooked inside.
-
Can I make Gulab Jamun at home?
Absolutely! With a few simple ingredients and the right syrup consistency, you can easily prepare soft and delicious Gulab Jamun at home.