Description
Gulab Jamun in Kunafa Nests is a delightful fusion dessert that combines the traditional Indian sweet gulab jamun with crispy, golden kunafa nests. These soft, syrup-soaked milk powder balls are nestled in buttery kataifi dough cups that are baked to perfection, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Infused with fragrant rose water and cardamom, this recipe makes an impressive yet approachable treat perfect for special occasions or elevating your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
Kunafa Nests
- 200g kunafa dough (kataifi)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Gulab Jamun
- 1 cup milk powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- Oil, for frying
Sugar Syrup
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon rose water
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional garnish: pistachios or rose petals
Instructions
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in rose water, cardamom powder, and lemon juice. Remove from heat and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the Gulab Jamun Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, and baking soda. Add the melted ghee (or butter) and milk, mixing gently until a soft, smooth dough forms. Avoid over-kneading to keep the dough tender.
- Shape and Fry Gulab Jamuns: Divide the dough into small equal portions and roll each into smooth, crack-free balls. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches, stirring gently until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove the fried balls with a slotted spoon and immediately soak them in the warm sugar syrup for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors and syrup.
- Prepare Kunafa Nests: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the kunafa (kataifi) dough with melted butter and powdered sugar until well combined. Arrange the mixture into small nest shapes inside a greased muffin tin, pressing gently to create a hollow center for the gulab jamuns. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the nests are crisp and golden brown.
- Assemble the Dessert: Carefully place one soaked gulab jamun into each baked kunafa nest. Garnish with chopped pistachios or delicate rose petals for an elegant touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm, crispy nests with soft, syrupy gulab jamuns.
Notes
- Ensure the gulab jamun dough is soft but not sticky; add milk gradually while kneading.
- Maintain medium heat while frying to cook the gulab jamuns evenly without burning.
- Warm the sugar syrup before soaking for better absorption.
- Kunafa nests can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container once cooled, but assemble just before serving to retain crispiness.
- Adjust the sweetness of the syrup by reducing sugar if preferred.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion (Middle Eastern and Indian)