Traditional Gulab Jamun Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Making India’s Favorite Dessert

Learn how to make authentic gulab jamun at home with this step-by-step recipe guide. Master the art of creating these soft, syrup-soaked Indian sweets using traditional techniques and expert tips.

Key Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Servings: 20 gulab jamuns
• Cuisine: Indian
• Category: Dessert
• Calories: 150 per piece

What is Gulab Jamun?

Gulab jamun is a classic Indian dessert consisting of soft milk-solid dumplings soaked in aromatic sugar syrup. The name “gulab” means rose (referring to the rose-scented syrup), while “jamun” refers to an Indian fruit similar in size and shape to these sweet dumplings.

Essential Ingredients

For the Gulab Jamun Balls

• 1 cup milk powder (full-fat)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons ghee
• Milk for kneading (approximately ¼ cup)
• Oil or ghee for deep frying

For the Sugar Syrup

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 4-5 cardamom pods
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• Few strands of saffron (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sugar Syrup

1. Combine sugar and water in a deep pan
2. Add crushed cardamom pods and saffron
3. Boil until slightly sticky (single-string consistency)
4. Add rose water and keep warm

Making the Gulab Jamun Dough

1. Mix milk powder, flour, and baking soda
2. Add ghee and knead
3. Gradually add milk to form a soft dough
4. Rest for 10 minutes
5. Shape into small, smooth balls

Frying Process

1. Heat oil or ghee on medium-low heat (175°C/350°F)
2. Fry balls until golden brown
3. Immediately transfer to warm syrup
4. Soak for at least 30 minutes

Expert Tips for Perfect Gulab Jamun

• Use full-fat milk powder for best results
• Maintain low heat while frying
• Keep the sugar syrup warm
• Don’t overcrowd while frying
• Roll perfectly smooth balls for even cooking

Common Troubleshooting

• Hard Gulab Jamun: Dough overworked or oil too hot
• Cracked Surface: Dough too dry or uneven kneading
• Dense Texture: Too much flour used
• Gulab Jamun Falls Apart: Oil not at right temperature

Storage and Serving Suggestions

• Store in sugar syrup for up to 1 week in refrigerator
• Serve warm or at room temperature
• Garnish with chopped pistachios
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for fusion dessert

Nutritional Information

(Per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 20g

Recipe Variations

• Stuffed Gulab Jamun: Add chopped nuts inside
• Chocolate Gulab Jamun: Add cocoa powder to dough
• Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar substitutes in syrup

Cultural Significance

Gulab jamun holds a special place in Indian festivities and celebrations. Originally inspired by Persian desserts, it has evolved into one of India’s most beloved sweets, especially during festivals like Diwali and special occasions.

Also known as?

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• Perfect gulab jamun tips
• Indian dessert recipe
• Authentic gulab jamun
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• Indian sweet recipe
• Milk powder dessert recipe

Description

Learn how to make perfect, soft, and juicy gulab jamun at home with this authentic Indian recipe. Step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and troubleshooting guide included.