How to Make Gulab Jamun with Milk Powder

Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert made from milk powder, fried to golden perfection, and soaked in sugar syrup. Here’s an easy recipe to make Gulab Jamun with milk powder at home.

Ingredients:

For the Gulab Jamun Balls:

• 1 cup milk powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup milk (or as needed to knead the dough)
• Oil or ghee for frying

For the Sugar Syrup:

• 1.5 cups sugar
• 1.5 cups water
• 4-5 green cardamom pods (slightly crushed)
• A few strands of saffron (optional)
• 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent crystallization)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

1. In a pan, add 1.5 cups of sugar and 1.5 cups of water. Stir to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add cardamom pods, saffron (if using), and rose water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the syrup is slightly sticky but not too thick.
4. Add the lemon juice to prevent crystallization. Turn off the heat and set the syrup aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking soda.
2. Add ghee and mix until it resembles a coarse crumbly texture.
3. Gradually add milk, a little at a time, and gently knead the mixture into a smooth and soft dough. Do not over-knead. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Gulab Jamun Balls

1. Divide the dough into small equal portions and gently roll them into smooth, crack-free balls. Ensure there are no cracks, as cracks can cause the Gulab Jamuns to break while frying.
2. Keep the balls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

Step 4: Fry the Gulab Jamuns

1. Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan over medium-low heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, gently slide in the Gulab Jamun balls, a few at a time.
3. Fry on low heat, stirring continuously to ensure even cooking. The balls will expand as they cook, turning golden brown. Fry until evenly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the fried Gulab Jamuns and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

Step 5: Soak the Gulab Jamuns in Syrup

1. While still warm, gently transfer the fried Gulab Jamun balls into the warm sugar syrup.
2. Let the Gulab Jamuns soak in the syrup for at least 1-2 hours to absorb the syrup and become soft.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Gulab Jamuns warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or saffron strands.

Tips:

• Milk: Use room-temperature milk to knead the dough.
• Frying Temperature: Fry the Gulab Jamuns on low heat to ensure they cook evenly and remain soft inside.
• Syrup Soaking: Ensure the sugar syrup is warm, not hot, when soaking the Gulab Jamuns.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Gulab Jamun with milk powder!