Kala Gulab Jamun Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Gulab Jamun:

• 200 grams khoya or mava (reduced milk solids)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon semolina (sooji)
• A pinch of baking soda
• Ghee or oil for deep frying
• Chopped nuts for garnishing (optional)

For the Sugar Syrup:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• A few strands of saffron (optional)
• 1 teaspoon rose water or cardamom powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, crumble the khoya or mava until it becomes smooth and lump-free.
2. Add all-purpose flour, semolina, and a pinch of baking soda to the khoya. Mix well to form a smooth dough. If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of milk to bind the dough.
3. Divide the dough into small, equal-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls. Ensure there are no cracks.
4. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over low-medium heat. The temperature should be around 160-170°C (320-340°F).
5. Carefully slide the prepared dough balls into the hot ghee or oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the Gulab Jamun on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn dark brown or almost black in color. This gives them the characteristic "kala" (black) appearance.
6. Remove the fried Gulab Jamun from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil by placing them on a paper towel.
7. Meanwhile, prepare the sugar syrup. In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
8. Add saffron strands and rose water or cardamom powder to the sugar syrup for flavor. Simmer the syrup for 5-7 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
9. While the syrup is still warm, carefully drop the fried Gulab Jamun into the syrup.
10. Allow the Gulab Jamun to soak in the sugar syrup for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for best results.
11. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
12. Serve the delectable Kala Gulab Jamun warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy the rich and irresistible sweetness of homemade Kala Gulab Jamun!