Saffron-Glazed Gulab Jamun

A rich, creamy Indian dessert consisting of dumplings soaked in a fragrant saffron syrup, made with milk solids and deep-fried to perfection, served warm. This recipe is an authentic take on the classic Indian dessert, originating from the Mughal Empire.

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 cups milk powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup ghee
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads
• 1/4 tsp rose water
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• 1/4 tsp leavening powder
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Combine the milk powder, flour, ghee, sugar, saffron threads, rose water, cardamom powder, and leavening powder in a mixing bowl. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.

2. 2

   Step 2: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions and shape each portion into a smooth ball.

3. 3

   Step 3: Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to deep-fry the dough balls. Fry the gulab jamun until golden brown and puffed up, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

4. 4

   Step 4: Remove the gulab jamun from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. 5

   Step 5: To make the saffron syrup, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and saffron threads in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.

6. 6

   Step 6: Add the rose water and cardamom powder to the saffron syrup and stir to combine.

7. 7

   Step 7: To assemble the gulab jamun, place 2-3 fried gulab jamun in a serving bowl or individual glasses. Pour the saffron syrup over the gulab jamun and garnish with chopped pistachios.

8. 8

   Step 8: Serve the gulab jamun warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

9. 9

   Step 9: Store the leftover gulab jamun in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the gulab jamun in the microwave or oven before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

To make the gulab jamun more tender, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the dough. To avoid the gulab jamun from becoming too crispy, do not over-fry them.

📊 Nutrition per Serving