How to make soft Gulab Jamuns?

Question

I use Gulab Jamun mix of the Gits company. http://www.gitsfood.com/gulabjamun/

The problem is that even on low fire the balls get brown from out side, but don't get cooked "properly" within. When I try to cook it for a longer time, they tend to be hard.

What can I add to the mixture so that it cooks "properly" within and remains soft too? Sodium bicarbonate? or something else can work too?

Answer

Add baking powder to the mixture, if needed, as it will cause them to puff up and lighten when cooked. Adding a little cream may also help.

I have a Gulab Jamun recipe from "Dance of Spices" by Laxmi Hiremath, pg 412, which lists the following for the dough:

• 0.5 cup (120 mL) unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (around 470 mL) powdered nonfat dry milk
• 1 tsp (5 mL) baking powder
• 1 cup (236 mL) heavy whipping cream (probably listed as "double cream" where you live, see question on cream types)
• about 1 TBSP water (15 mL)

The dry ingredients are mixed, then the cream is gradually mixed in, and the water is added to make a smooth, pliable dough.

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