Delicious Ghevar Recipe: A Traditional Indian Sweet Made Easy for Home Bakers

Ghevar Recipe: The Traditional Indian Festive Delight

Ghevar, a delectable Rajasthani dessert, is a must-have during festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan. This intricate, honeycomb-like sweet is made from all-purpose flour, soaked in sugar syrup, and adorned with nuts, making it a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 cup chilled water
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water (for sugar syrup)
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• Chopped almonds and pistachios for garnish
• Ghee for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk ghee with 1-2 ice cubes until it becomes white and creamy.
• Add chilled water gradually and continue to whisk until the ghee and water are well combined.
• Slowly add all-purpose flour to the ghee mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
• Add milk and lemon juice to the batter and mix well. The batter should have a thin, pouring consistency.

2. Making the Sugar Syrup:

• In a pan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium flame until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup reaches a one-string consistency.
• Add saffron strands and cardamom powder to the syrup for a rich flavor and color. Keep the syrup warm.

3. Frying the Ghevar:

• Heat ghee in a deep, wide pan. The ghee should be hot but not smoking.
• Pour a ladleful of batter into the center of the pan from a height. The batter will spread and form a lace-like pattern.
• Allow the edges to turn golden, then pour another ladleful of batter in the center. Repeat until the Ghevar reaches the desired thickness.
• Once the Ghevar is golden and crisp, carefully remove it from the ghee and drain the excess oil on a wire rack.

4. Soaking and Garnishing:

• Place the fried Ghevar on a plate and pour the warm sugar syrup evenly over it, allowing it to soak in.
• Garnish with chopped almonds, pistachios, and a drizzle of saffron syrup.

5. Serving: 

• Your Ghevar is ready to be served! This crispy and porous dessert is perfect for festive celebrations or special occasions.

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Tips for Perfect Ghevar:

• Ensure the batter is smooth and of a thin consistency for the perfect honeycomb texture.
• Fry the Ghevar on medium heat to achieve even cooking and crispiness.
• The sugar syrup should be warm but not too hot when pouring over the Ghevar.

Ghevar is more than just a dessert; it's a symbol of festivity and tradition in Indian households. This recipe will help you recreate the magic of this sweet at home, bringing the flavors of Rajasthan to your table.