Awadhi-style Gulab Jamun Pancakes

Ingredients

The Awadhi-style Gulab Jamun Pancakes differ from the original Romanian Papanași in terms of flavor profile and cooking technique. While the Papanași are typically served with sour cream and jam, the Awadhi version replaces these accompaniments with a fragrant rose-infused sugar syrup. Additionally, the Awadhi version incorporates aromatic spices like cardamom, which adds a distinct flavor to the pancakes. The cooking technique also differs, as the Gulab Jamun Pancakes are fried until golden brown and then soaked in the sugar syrup, whereas the Papanași are typically boiled. We alse have the original recipe for Papanași, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) cottage cheese 250g (8.8 oz) cottage cheese
• 100g (3.5 oz) semolina 100g (3.5 oz) semolina
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 tablespoon rose water 1 tablespoon rose water
• Ghee or oil for frying Ghee or oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 40g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, semolina, and cardamom powder. Mix well until a soft dough-like consistency is achieved.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into flat discs.
3. 3.
   Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Fry the shaped discs until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
5. 5.
   In a separate saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil and simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved.
6. 6.
   Remove the sugar syrup from heat and stir in the rose water.
7. 7.
   Place the fried pancakes in the sugar syrup and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.
8. 8.
   Serve the Gulab Jamun Pancakes warm, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cottage cheese — Make sure to use fresh and soft cottage cheese for a smooth batter.
• Semolina — Fine semolina works best for this recipe as it gives a softer texture to the pancakes.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of saffron strands to the sugar syrup.
• Serve the Gulab Jamun Pancakes warm for the best taste and texture.
• You can garnish the pancakes with chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch.

Serving advice

Serve the Awadhi Gulab Jamun Pancakes as a dessert or a sweet treat during festive occasions. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Gulab Jamun Pancakes on a serving platter and drizzle some of the rose-infused sugar syrup over them. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an elegant touch. Serve them in individual bowls or plates for a visually appealing presentation.