For many Indians and South East Asians, gulgula strikes memories. Served during various festivities; be it religious, cultural or personal, these morsels of sweetness are shared with friends and family to celebrate.
They are similar to basic fritters but have the Eastern flavor from the cardamom powder and fennel seeds. Many variations are made with small alteration in recipes. Besides the plain version, gulgula are made with a sweet lentil stuffing. These stuffed gulgulas are usually made for fasting rituals in Hindu households.
In India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, gulgulas are made on happy occasions with the whole family gathered around and lending a hand. Weddings and religious holidays like Eid and Diwali don’t go without gulgula being served at least once. This recipe stores well. You can store it in a storage container and eat later, and it will still taste as delicious as freshly prepared.
Ingredients
tbsp all-purpose flour: 4
small ripe bananas (optional): 2
tbsp sugar: 6
pinch salt: 1
tsp green cardamom powder: 1
strands saffron: 3-4
cup milk: 1/2
tbsp fennel seeds: 1
Ghee/oil for shallow-frying
Condensed milk for garnishing
How To Make Indian Gulagula
- Sift the flour and remove any lumps.
- Blend flour, 1 banana, sugar, salt, cardamom powder, saffron, milk and fennel seeds into a thick batter (should be thicker than cake batter).
- Smash and fold in the other banana and pour into abowl.
- Heat ghee/oil in a shallow pan on medium flame.
- Drop tablespoon sized dollops of the batter and fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Change sides frequently and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Take them out on paper towels and drain excess oil.
- Drizzle some condensed milk on top and serve hot.
Notes:
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Before you fry the whole batch, test fry one and check for taste and consistency.
Trivia
- In Indian and Pakistani cultures, gulgulas are thought to bring good luck to a bride-to-be. Family and friends gather at the brides’ home and make gulgula together.
- Gulgulas are made by many Hindus as a bhog or offerings for their deities and are kept near their sculptures. And are distributed as