Gulab Jamun and Peace in India (By Krishav Gaur)

From an old cookbook I found.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk powder

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)

• A few tablespoons of milk (as needed for dough)

• Oil or ghee for frying

For the syrup:

• 1 ½ cups sugar

• 1 ½ cups water

• 3–4 green cardamom pods

• A few saffron strands (optional)

• 1 tsp rose water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix milk powder, flour, and baking soda. Add ghee and gently rub to form crumbs.

2. Gradually add milk until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

3. Shape small, smooth balls with no cracks.

4. Heat oil on low-medium heat and fry the balls until golden brown.

5. In another pot, combine sugar, water, cardamom, and saffron. Boil until slightly sticky, then add rose water.

6. Soak the fried gulab jamuns in warm syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Note to consider:
Across South Asia, gulab jamun is served at both Eid and Diwali, shared between Muslim and Hindu families alike. The dessert reminds us that sweetness transcends belief, and unity can be tasted as much as it is preached.