Introduction
Gud Paras is a traditional Punjabi sweet that is especially prepared during the festival of Lohri. These crispy, deep-fried flour bites are coated in a rich jaggery syrup flavored with fennel seeds, making them wonderfully crunchy, aromatic, and festive.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- ¼ cup melted ghee
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 100 ml warm water (or as required)
- Oil, for deep frying
- 2 cups jaggery, crushed
- 1–2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp ghee (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and melted ghee.
- Rub the ghee into the flour until well mixed.
- Add the baking powder and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add the warm water and bring the mixture together into a stiff dough.
- Do not over-knead the dough.
- Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough slightly thick and cut into your preferred shapes.
- Heat oil over low heat.
- Fry the prepared Paras in batches for about 8–10 minutes until evenly golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oil and set aside.
- In another pan, combine the crushed jaggery with 1–2 tablespoons of water.
- Cook over low heat until the jaggery melts completely.
- Continue stirring until the syrup starts bubbling.
- Cook until it reaches a two-string consistency, or test by dropping a little syrup into cold water—it should harden immediately.
- Add the fennel seeds.
- Add the fried Paras and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated with the jaggery syrup.
- Turn off the heat.
- Transfer the coated Paras to a plate and allow them to cool completely.
- Separate the pieces while they are still slightly warm for a better presentation.
- Your delicious Lohri Special Gud Paras are ready to enjoy.
Happy Lohri!
