How to make soft Gulab Jamuns?

Question

I use Gulab Jamun mix of the Gits company. http://www.gitsfood.com/gulabjamun/

The problem is that even on low fire the balls get brown from out side, but don't get cooked "properly" within. When I try to cook it for a longer time, they tend to be hard.

What can I add to the mixture so that it cooks "properly" within and remains soft too? Sodium bicarbonate? or something else can work too?

Answer 1

Add baking powder to the mixture, if needed, as it will cause them to puff up and lighten when cooked. Adding a little cream may also help.

I have a Gulab Jamun recipe from "Dance of Spices" by Laxmi Hiremath, pg 412, which lists the following for the dough:

• 0.5 cup (120 mL) unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (around 470 mL) powdered nonfat dry milk
• 1 tsp (5 mL) baking powder
• 1 cup (236 mL) heavy whipping cream (probably listed as "double cream" where you live, see question on cream types)
• about 1 TBSP water (15 mL)

The dry ingredients are mixed, then the cream is gradually mixed in, and the water is added to make a smooth, pliable dough.

Answer 2

My brother just made some Gulab Jamuns and had the same problem...You have to knead the dough really with lot of pressure and make it ultra soft. Then fry the balls in thick bottom pan on a low flame. Pans that become hot quickly will make the balls dark and wil not get cooked inside..

Answer 3

• Kneading dough is important. Make sure you don't knead very tight and roll it very tight.

• While frying heat oil to high and reduce to medium. Wait for few seconds and fry the jamun in medium or low heat.

• Add baking powder which helps to soft.

• Dont leave the fried jamun out for long after frying. Drop it in sugar syrup. Make sure it dips completely in the syrup.

Answer 4

While kneading dough add some milk which has small amount of heat.