Jalebi (syrup-soaked pretzels)

Jalebi – Soaked Pretzels

Who doesn't love desserts that combine a crispy texture with a sweet and aromatic syrup? Jalebi, these soaked pretzels, are a true delicacy, with a rich history and widespread popularity. This simple yet savory recipe will take you on a fascinating culinary journey. Whether you're having a quiet evening at home or want to impress your guests, jalebi are the perfect choice. Ready to start? Let's see how we can prepare these delicious pretzels!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the pretzels:
- 450 g flour
- 300 g yogurt
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow food coloring (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- 500 ml oil (for frying)

For the syrup:
- 250 g sugar
- 100 ml water
- Juice of one lemon

Necessary utensils
- A large bowl for mixing the ingredients
- A whisk or spatula
- A piping bag with a thin tip
- A deep frying pan
- A small pot or saucepan for the syrup
- A plate covered with paper towels

Step by Step

1. Preparing the dough
Start by mixing the flour, yogurt, melted butter, powdered sugar, yellow food coloring, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Use a whisk or spatula to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth dough. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter. This texture will help maintain the shape of the pretzels during frying.

2. Cooling the dough
Once the dough is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for two hours. This step is essential as it allows the ingredients to blend and stabilize, making the jalebi crispier.

3. Preparing the syrup
While the dough is cooling, you can prepare the syrup. In a small pot, add the sugar and water, then place it over medium heat. Let it boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue boiling the syrup until it thickens, similar to honey. Finally, add the lemon juice, which will provide a hint of acidity to balance the sweetness of the syrup. Turn off the heat and let it cool.

4. Frying the pretzels
After the dough has chilled, remove it and fill the piping bag with it. In a deep frying pan, add the oil and let it heat up. Test the oil temperature by adding a small drop of dough; if small bubbles appear around it, the oil is ready. Start forming the pretzels directly in the pan, making sure to join the ends so they don’t separate during frying. You can make them thinner for a more elegant look, but be careful not to make them too thin, as they may break.

5. Browning the jalebi
Fry the pretzels on both sides until they become golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them over. Once they are ready, remove them to a plate covered with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

6. Soaking
After the pretzels have drained of oil, take each one and dip it in the cooled syrup, ensuring it is well coated. Then place them on a serving platter. Jalebi are delicious and warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Practical Tips
- Perfect texture: If you want to achieve less crispy pretzels, you can add a little milk to the dough. This will make the texture softer but will also affect the frying time.
- Natural coloring: If you prefer to avoid artificial coloring, you can use turmeric to achieve a natural yellow hue.
- Serving suggestion: Jalebi can be served alongside a cup of tea or warm milk. The flavors complement each other perfectly, turning the dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do bubbles form in the syrup?
Bubbles indicate that the syrup is well cooked and has the right consistency. These bubbles will disappear once the syrup cools, leaving you with a smooth and delicious syrup.

- Can I keep jalebi for the next day?
Jalebi are best enjoyed fresh, but if any remain, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, the textures may become softer.

Nutritional Benefits
Jalebi are a source of quickly available carbohydrates, making them ideal for an energy boost. However, moderate consumption is recommended due to their high sugar content.

Possible Variations
- Jalebi with nuts: You can add chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Flavored jalebi: Add flavors like cardamom or vanilla to the syrup for a touch of sophistication.

In conclusion, jalebi are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a celebration, a gathering with friends, or a simple treat. With a bit of patience and creativity, you'll create a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also pleases the eyes. So, put on your apron and let's get cooking!