Jalebi Recipe

Jalebi, a popular Indian dessert, is known for its crispy, spiral shape and its irresistible sweetness. Whether enjoyed as a festive treat or an everyday indulgence, jalebi is a delightful dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or rabri.
Ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric or food color (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
For Frying:
- Ghee or oil for deep frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and cardamom powder.
- Add yogurt and mix well. Gradually add water to form a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be thick but flowy, like pancake batter.
- Add ghee and food color (if using) and mix well.
- Cover and let it ferment for 6-8 hours or overnight. If short on time, let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Sugar Syrup:
- In a pan, combine sugar and water. Heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add lemon juice to prevent crystallization, then add cardamom powder, saffron, and rose water.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a slightly sticky consistency. Turn off the heat and keep it warm.
3. Fry the Jalebis:
- Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan on medium heat.
- Pour the batter into a piping bag or squeeze bottle with a small nozzle.
- Squeeze the batter into the hot oil in circular, spiral shapes. Fry until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Remove from oil and immediately dip in warm sugar syrup for 30-40 seconds, ensuring they absorb the syrup.
- Transfer to a plate and let excess syrup drain.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve warm with rabri, or enjoy them as they are!
- Garnish with chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for extra crunch.
Tips for Perfect Jalebi:
- Fermenting the batter helps achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Keep the sugar syrup warm but not too hot when dipping jalebis.
- Fry on medium heat to ensure crispiness without burning.
Enjoy your homemade, crispy, and juicy jalebis!
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