Holi, the festival of colours, is a time to celebrate with friends and family, spreading joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. Among the many sweet treats that fill homes during this vibrant festival, Gujiyas are a must-have! These deep-fried pastries, filled with a sweet mixture of khoya (milk solids), dried fruits, and aromatic spices, are a favourite across India. If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth this Holi, here’s a detailed step-by-step recipe to make Gujiyas at home.
Ingredients Required
For the Dough:
2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida)
2 tbsp semolina (rava) or fine sooji (optional, adds crispness)
1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
A pinch of salt
Water, as needed (to knead the dough)
For the Filling:
1 cup khoya (mawa), grated
1/4 cup grated coconut (optional, but adds flavour)
1/4 cup chopped cashews
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp ghee (for roasting the filling)
For Frying:
Ghee or oil (enough for deep frying)
Method to Prepare
1. Preparing the Dough:
- Mix the flour and semolina: in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (maida) and semolina (sooji).
- Add ghee to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, rub the ghee into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. This will help make the gujiya crust crispy.
- Add a pinch of salt to the flour.
- Slowly add water a little at a time and knead the mixture into a smooth, firm dough. The dough should not be too soft or too hard. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes.
2. Preparing the Filling:
- In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee on low-medium heat. Add the grated khoya and sauté it until it becomes slightly golden and loses moisture (this step helps make the filling more aromatic).
- Add chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins to the pan. Roast them with the khoya for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If using, add the grated coconut and mix well.
- Stir in the cardamom powder, followed by powdered sugar. Mix everything together and cook for another minute until it becomes a thick, well-blended mixture.
- Let the filling cool. Once done, remove the filling from the heat and let it cool completely before using it in the gujiya.
3. Shaping the Gujiya:
- Divide the dough and let it rest; divide it into small lemon-sized balls (about 20-25 balls).
- Roll each ball into a small circle (about 3-4 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin. Make sure the edges are thinner than the centre.
- Place a small spoonful of the prepared filling in the centre of each rolled dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together gently to seal the filling inside. You can either press the edges using your fingers or use a fork to make decorative indentations along the edge.
- For a more traditional look, you can pinch and twist the edges of the gujiya to give it a decorative pattern.
4. Frying the Gujiya:
- In a deep frying pan or kadhai, heat ghee or oil on medium heat. The oil should be moderately hot, not smoking. Test the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough; if it rises to the surface immediately, the oil is ready for frying.
- Carefully slide the gujiyas into the hot oil, one or two at a time, depending on the size of your frying pan. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry them on low to medium heat, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, remove the gujiyas from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Serving:
- Let the gujiyas cool down a bit before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Gujiya can be stored in an airtight container for a week or more.
Tips to Remember
- You can make gujiya in advance and freeze them. Just fry them on the day of serving.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the gujiya instead of frying. Simply brush them with ghee or butter and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden.
- For extra flavour, you can add saffron strands to the filling mixture.
Gujiyas are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also a symbol of the joy and togetherness that Holi brings. Whether you're hosting a celebration or just indulging in some festive treats at home, these homemade Gujiyas are sure to add an extra sweetness to your celebrations.
ALSO READ: Phool to Lathmar: 5 special Holi celebrations that make Mathura and Vrindavan a must-visit
