Dahi Jalebi is an indulgent Indian dessert where crispy, golden jalebis are soaked in a sticky sugar syrup and served with sweetened yogurt. The recipe starts by making a batter for the jalebis, frying them until golden, and dipping them in sugar syrup. A smooth, sweet yogurt mixture is then poured over the jalebis. Garnish with cardamom powder or nuts for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for special occasions, including Maha Kumbh 2025. Its combination of textures crisp jalebi and creamy yogurt makes it a festive favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Jalebi:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 2 tablespoons rice flour (for crispiness)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color)
- 1/2 cup yogurt (curd)
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for consistency)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or oil
- Ghee or oil for deep frying
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to avoid crystallization)
- A few strands of saffron (optional, for aroma)
For the Dahi (Yogurt):
- 2 cups plain yogurt (fresh and thick)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Prepare the Jalebi Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, and baking soda.
- Add 1/2 cup of yogurt and a little water to form a thick batter. You want the batter to be of piping consistency, so add water gradually.
- Once mixed well, cover the batter and let it sit for 2-3 hours to ferment slightly. This will help in achieving a crisp texture when frying.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
- In a pan, add 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and add cardamom powder and lemon juice. Allow the syrup to simmer for 5-7 minutes. The consistency should be slightly sticky but not too thick.
- Optionally, you can add a few saffron strands to the syrup for an added fragrance and color.
Step 3: Prepare the Dahi (Yogurt)
- In a bowl, whisk the yogurt to make it smooth and creamy.
- Optionally, you can sweeten the yogurt by adding powdered sugar and a pinch of cardamom powder. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Fry the Jalebis
- Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.
- Pour the jalebi batter into a piping bag or squeeze bottle with a small nozzle.
- Once the oil is hot, squeeze the batter in circular patterns directly into the oil. Fry the jalebis until they are golden and crisp on both sides.
- As soon as they are fried, dip the jalebis into the warm sugar syrup. Let them soak for 20-30 seconds to absorb the syrup.
Step 5: Assemble the Dahi Jalebi
- Take a serving plate or bowl and arrange the syrup-soaked jalebis on the plate.
- Spoon the sweetened yogurt over the top of the jalebis, covering them generously.
- Optionally, sprinkle some cardamom powder or crushed pistachios/almonds for garnish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Dahi Jalebi immediately while the jalebis are still warm and crispy, combined with the cool, creamy yogurt. This dish can be enjoyed as a dessert or a festive treat during Maha Kumbh 2025.
Tips:
- Make sure the yogurt is thick, as thin yogurt will not hold well with the jalebi.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the yogurt according to your preference.
- The jalebis should be crispy and hot when soaked in the syrup for the best texture.
Dahi Jalebi is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for special occasions like Maha Kumbh, bringing the richness of traditional sweets with a modern twist.
