Sure! Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for making jalebi at home:
For the batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1 tablespoon gram flour (besan)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
- 3/4 cup lukewarm water
For the sugar syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
For frying:
- Vegetable oil or ghee for deep frying

Instructions:
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water and heat over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add saffron strands (if using) and cardamom powder.
- Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the syrup slightly thickens.
- Turn off the heat and set aside.
- Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, gram flour, and baking powder.
- Add plain yogurt and mix well.
- Gradually add lukewarm water to the mixture and whisk until you get a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be similar to a pancake batter.
- Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step allows fermentation and gives the jalebis their characteristic tangy flavor.
- Fry the Jalebis:
- Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Fill a squeeze bottle or a piping bag with the batter. You can also use a plastic sauce bottle with a small hole.
- Squeeze the batter into the hot oil to form small circular shapes or pretzel-like spirals. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the jalebis until they turn golden and crisp on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried jalebis from the oil and drain excess oil by placing them on a paper towel.
- Soak in Sugar Syrup:
- While the jalebis are still warm, gently immerse them in the prepared sugar syrup.
- Allow them to soak for 1-2 minutes so that they absorb the syrup and become sweet and flavorful.
- Serve:
- Once soaked, remove the jalebis from the syrup and serve them warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy the homemade jalebis as a delightful treat with your family and friends! Remember that making perfect jalebis might take some practice, but the effort is definitely worth the delicious results. Happy cooking!