GulabJamuns

Authentic GulabJamuns Recipe from Pakistan | Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12-14

Introduction

Gulab Jamuns are a popular Indian dessert made of deep-fried dough balls soaked in a sweet syrup. These delicious treats are often served at special occasions and festivals.

History

Gulab Jamuns have been enjoyed in India for centuries, with their origins dating back to medieval times. The name "Gulab Jamun" is derived from the Persian words for rose (gulab) and berry (jamun), as the dessert is said to resemble the size and color of a jamun berry.

Ingredients

1 cup of bisquick
2 cups of carnation powder
2 cups of water
1.5 cups of sugar
4 pods of cardamom
a few drops of rose water
0.5 stick of butter (4 tbsp)
0.13 cup of yogurt
milk
oil for frying

How to prepare

Heat the butter and pour it into a bowl. Add Bisquick, carnation powder, and yogurt, then blend them together. Knead well, adding milk if necessary. Make a smooth ball, cover it, and let it rest for 30 minutes. Make 12-14 small balls.
Heat the water, add sugar, and bring it to a boil. Add cardamom seeds and simmer. Boil, then simmer to reduce the water by half. Heat the oil until hot and fry the balls until they turn golden brown or almost black.
Soak the balls in sugar syrup until they double in size, which may take 1 hour or overnight. Serve them hot or cold.

Variations

Add a pinch of saffron or cardamom powder to the dough for extra flavor.
Substitute half of the sugar with honey for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure the dough is smooth and free of any lumps before shaping it into balls.

- Fry the Gulab Jamuns on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and don't burn.

- Soak the fried balls in the sugar syrup while they are still warm to allow them to absorb the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Gulab Jamuns can be served hot or cold, garnished with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of edible silver leaf.

Cooking Techniques

Knead the dough gently to avoid making it tough.

- Fry the balls in small batches to prevent overcrowding in the oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use all-purpose flour instead of Bisquick if needed.

- Replace carnation powder with powdered milk in a pinch.

Make Ahead Tips

Gulab Jamuns can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Gulab Jamuns on a decorative platter and drizzle with extra syrup for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Gulab Jamuns with a cup of hot chai tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Gulab Jamuns in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Gulab Jamuns contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Gulab Jamuns contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Gulab Jamuns contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Gulab Jamuns contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Gulab Jamuns are not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Gulab Jamuns contain dairy (butter, yogurt) and gluten (Bisquick), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Gulab Jamuns are a high-calorie dessert with moderate amounts of carbohydrates and fats.

Summary

Gulab Jamuns are a classic Indian dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create these delectable treats at home for your next special occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It all started when I was a young girl, visiting my aunt in the bustling streets of Mumbai. The air was filled with the scents of spices and the sound of vendors selling their wares. I remember walking past a little sweet shop that caught my eye with its colorful display of sweets and treats.

I wandered in, curious to see what delights lay within. As I perused the shelves, my eyes landed on a plate of golden brown, syrup-soaked balls that looked absolutely divine. I asked the shopkeeper what they were called, and he replied with a smile, "GulabJamuns, my dear. A traditional Indian sweet made with milk solids and soaked in sugar syrup."

I was instantly intrigued and begged him to tell me the secret to making these delectable treats. He chuckled and said he would only share the recipe with me if I promised to keep it a secret and make them with love. I eagerly agreed, and he proceeded to teach me the art of making GulabJamuns.

The first step was to mix together milk powder, flour, and ghee to form a smooth dough. I watched in fascination as he rolled the dough into small balls and fried them until they were a rich golden brown. The aroma that wafted through the air was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

Once the GulabJamuns were fried to perfection, he showed me how to prepare the sugar syrup by boiling water, sugar, and a touch of cardamom until it reached a thick, sticky consistency. He then gently dropped the fried GulabJamuns into the syrup, allowing them to soak up the sweet liquid and become even more indulgent.

As I took my first bite of the warm, soft GulabJamun, I was transported to a world of pure bliss. The sweetness of the syrup combined with the richness of the dough was a match made in heaven. I couldn't believe that something so simple could be so incredibly delicious.

From that day on, I was determined to perfect the art of making GulabJamuns. I practiced tirelessly, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I found the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I made them for every family gathering, sharing the recipe with anyone who asked.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the traditional recipe, incorporating ingredients like saffron and rose water to enhance the flavors even further. Each time I make GulabJamuns, I am reminded of that fateful day in Mumbai when I first discovered the magic of this sweet treat.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar aromas of spices and sweets, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It has become a beloved tradition in our family, passed down from generation to generation as a symbol of love and togetherness.

And so, whenever I make a batch of GulabJamuns, I do so with a heart full of memories and a smile on my face. For me, this recipe is more than just a sweet treat – it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the joy that cooking and sharing food can bring. And for that, I will always be grateful.