Maida Gujiya, the name itself, evokes images of indulgence and joy. These delightful Indian pastries are a true treat for the senses. Crispy, sweet, and aromatic, Maida Gujiyas are a popular dessert that’s often enjoyed during festivals like Holi and Diwali. But who needs a special occasion to savour these heavenly delights?
Imagine biting into a golden, crispy pastry, and as you do, a burst of sweet, fragrant khoya, the warmth of cardamom, and the delightful crunch of cashew nuts and raisins greet your taste buds. It’s a symphony of flavours and textures that’s hard to resist.
Maida Gujiyas are the perfect embodiment of the rich and diverse culinary traditions of India. They’re often made in homes across the country, with each family adding its unique twist to the recipe. The combination of crispy pastry and sweet, aromatic filling is simply irresistible.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, making Maida Gujiyas at home is a rewarding experience. The process may seem intricate initially, but the result is worth it.
To make these Maida Gujiyas, you’ll create a sugar syrup that adds sweetness and stickiness to the filling, which includes milk khoya, cardamom powder, and lightly fried cashew nuts and raisins. The pastry is made from maida (all-purpose flour) and ghee, resulting in a crispy and golden exterior.
Maida Gujiya
Maida Gujiya
Ingredients
- 250 gms Sugar
- 300 ml Oil
For the filling:
- 200 gms Milk Khoya
- A pinch of Cardamom Powder
- A few Cashewnuts fried in ghee or oil
- A few Raisins fried in ghee or oil
For the pastry:
- 1 cup Maida All-Purpose Flour
- A pinch of Cooking Soda
- A very small pinch of Salt or as per taste
- 1 tsp Ghee
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the sugar syrup. Boil the sugar with water until it reaches a thick, sticky consistency.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the filling ingredients, including milk khoya, a pinch of cardamom powder, and the fried cashew nuts and raisins. Roll this mixture into small balls.
- In a separate bowl, mix the pastry ingredients: maida, a pinch of cooking soda, a tiny pinch of salt (adjust to taste), and 1 tsp of ghee. Add just enough water to form a thick dough.
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into thin puris.
- Place one of the prepared filling balls on each puri and fold it into a small samosa or half-moon shape, sealing the edges.
- Heat oil in a frying pan.
- Carefully fry the prepared gujiyas until they turn golden brown, then remove them.
- Allow excess oil to drain, and transfer the gujiyas to a plate.
- Optionally, add a teaspoon of the prepared sugar syrup on top and garnish with copra or sliced almonds for an extra touch of flavour.
Sign up for our newsletter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I store Maida Gujiyas for later?
Absolutely! Maida Gujiyas store well in an airtight container for several days. Just make sure they cool down completely before storing.
Can I use store-bought khoya for the filling?
Yes, you can use store-bought khoya for convenience. However, homemade khoya can add a richer flavor.
What are some suitable pairings for Maida Gujiyas?
Maida Gujiyas pair wonderfully with a cup of masala chai or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you enjoy these, you might also like trying your hand at making Gulab Jamun or Kaju Katli.
Can I make a healthier version of Maida Gujiyas?
While Maida Gujiyas are a delightful indulgence, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for the pastry and reduce the sugar content for a slightly healthier version. The taste may vary slightly, but it’s still delicious.
What’s the origin of Maida Gujiyas?
Maida Gujiyas are a popular North Indian sweet, often associated with festivals and celebrations. They have a rich history and are a cherished part of Indian culinary traditions.
Maida Gujiyas are a delightful taste of India, offering a perfect blend of crispy pastry and a sweet, aromatic filling. These golden parcels of joy are ideal for celebrating festivals, sharing with loved ones, or simply treating yourself. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of masala chai or present them as a homemade gift, the charm of Maida Gujiyas is hard to resist. If you’re a fan of Indian sweets, you’ll find these to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Explore the world of Indian desserts and elevate your cooking skills with this classic recipe.
1 comment
I would be happy to get your periodical newsletter if you publish on my email
Thanks.