Indulge in Homemade Gulab Jamun

Recipe: Gulab Jamun

Ingredients:

• 1 cup full-fat milk powder
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter, melted
• 2-3 tablespoons milk, as needed to form dough
• Oil or ghee for deep frying
• For the Sugar Syrup:
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 4-5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • A few saffron strands (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon rose water or kewra water (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking soda. Mix well.
2. Gradually add melted ghee or butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles bread crumbs.
3. Slowly add milk, a little at a time, and knead until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into smooth balls without any cracks. Make sure the balls are compact and smooth.
5. Heat oil or ghee in a deep frying pan over medium-low heat. Fry the dough balls in batches, stirring gently to ensure even browning, until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, water, crushed cardamom pods, and saffron strands (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
7. Simmer the sugar syrup for 5-7 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and add rose water or kewra water (if using).
8. Gently drop the fried dough balls into the warm sugar syrup. Let them soak in the syrup for at least 1-2 hours before serving.
9. Serve gulab jamun warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts if desired. Enjoy the sweet, aromatic indulgence!

Benefits of Gulab Jamun:

1. Rich Source of Energy: Gulab jamun is a calorie-dense dessert, making it a quick source of energy when needed.
2. Good Source of Calcium: Milk powder, one of the main ingredients in gulab jamun, provides calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
3. Mood Enhancer: Consuming sweets like gulab jamun can trigger the release of serotonin in the brain, promoting feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
4. Boosts Digestion: Some traditional recipes for gulab jamun include aromatic spices like cardamom, which can aid digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
5. Celebratory Dessert: Gulab jamun is often served during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions, fostering a sense of togetherness and joy among family and friends.