Simple recipe to make crispy Jalebi, a popular sweet snack in India

Jalebi is a popular sweet snack in India and several other South Asian countries. It is made from a deep-fried batter that is shaped into pretzel-like spirals and soaked in a syrup made from sugar, water and spices.

Ingredients:

For the batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm water

For the syrup:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 green cardamom pods
• 2 cloves
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

For frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and stir until you have a smooth batter.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, green cardamom pods, and cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved. Add the lemon juice and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the syrup has thickened slightly. Keep warm.
4. In a deep saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 375°F.
5. Pour the batter into a squeeze bottle or a piping bag with a small tip.
6. Squeeze the batter into the hot oil in a circular pattern, starting from the center and spiraling outwards, to form jalebis. Fry until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalebis to the warm syrup. Let them soak for 1-2 minutes until they are coated and soft.
8. Remove the jalebis from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to drain. Serve hot or warm. Enjoy!