Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is a vibrant and auspicious Indian festival celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm across the country. It marks the triumph of good over evil and symbolizes the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. This joyous occasion is celebrated with various rituals, including the exchange of sweets and treats. One such delectable treat that holds a special place in the hearts of many during this festival is the mouthwatering Jalebi. In this blog, we will take you on a flavorful journey of making these golden, crispy, and syrupy spirals of sweetness to add a delightful touch to your Vijayadashami/Dussehra celebrations.
I. Ingredients
Before we dive into the art of making perfect Jalebis, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need:
1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
A pinch of saffron strands (kesar), soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
1 cup plain yogurt (curd)
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi)
Oil or ghee for frying
For the Sugar Syrup:
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
A few drops of lemon juice
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
II. Preparing the Jalebi Batter
Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, gram flour, and baking soda. Mix them well.
Adding the Flavor: Add the saffron-infused milk and cardamom powder to the dry ingredients. Mix again to incorporate the flavors.
Incorporating Yogurt: Gradually add yogurt to the mixture while continuously stirring. Ensure that there are no lumps, and the batter is smooth.
Thinning the Batter: Add water in small portions and whisk the batter until it reaches a thick yet flowing consistency. The batter should easily coat the back of a spoon.
Fermentation: Cover the batter and let it ferment for 8-10 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor of the Jalebis.
III. Making the Sugar Syrup
Boiling Sugar and Water: In a separate saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Adding Flavor: Add a few drops of lemon juice, saffron strands (if using), and cardamom powder to the sugar syrup. These ingredients will infuse the syrup with a delightful aroma and taste.
Checking Consistency: Allow the syrup to boil for about 5-7 minutes until it reaches a one-string consistency. To check this, take a small amount of syrup between your thumb and forefinger. When you separate your fingers, a single string of syrup should form.
Keeping Warm: Once the syrup reaches the desired consistency, keep it warm on low heat while you prepare the Jalebis.
IV. Frying the Jalebis
Heat the Oil/Ghee: In a deep frying pan or kadai, heat enough oil or ghee for deep frying the Jalebis. Keep the flame on medium-high.
Preparing the Jalebi Dispenser: You can use a Jalebi dispenser, a squeeze bottle, or a regular plastic bag with a small hole at the corner. Fill it with the fermented Jalebi batter.
Spiraling the Jalebis: Hold the dispenser or bag over the hot oil and squeeze in a spiral motion to form Jalebis. Keep the size of the spirals as per your preference. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Frying to Golden Perfection: Fry the Jalebis until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
Draining Excess Oil: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Jalebis from the oil and allow them to drain for a few seconds.
V. Soaking the Jalebis
Dipping in Sugar Syrup: While the Jalebis are still warm, gently immerse them in the warm sugar syrup. Ensure that the Jalebis are coated evenly with the syrup.
Letting Them Absorb: Allow the Jalebis to soak in the sugar syrup for about 1-2 minutes. They should absorb the syrup and become syrupy on the outside.
Removing Excess Syrup: Using a slotted spoon, lift the Jalebis from the syrup and let any excess syrup drip back into the pan.
VI. Serving and enjoying
Your homemade Jalebis for Vijayadashami/Dussehra are now ready to be served and enjoyed! You can garnish them with chopped pistachios or almonds for an added touch of elegance.
These delectable Jalebis are best enjoyed fresh and warm, making them a delightful treat for your family and friends during this auspicious festival. The combination of crispy spirals and the sweet aroma of saffron-infused sugar syrup will surely make your Vijayadashami/Dussehra celebrations even more special.
Conclusion
Vijayadashami/Dussehra is a time of celebration, reflection, and renewal of faith. It's a time to savor the sweet moments of life, quite literally, with delicious Jalebis. This blog has guided you through the steps of creating these golden, crispy spirals of sweetness, ensuring that you can make this traditional treat with confidence and love. As you share these homemade Jalebis with your loved ones, may they symbolize the victory of good over evil in your life, just as Lord Rama's triumph over Ravana is celebrated during this festival? Happy Vijayadashami/Dussehra, and May your celebrations be as sweet as these Jalebis!