Gujiya

The air is filled with fresh flowery essence and holi joy echoes in the laughter of kids. The scent of ghee and cardamom hangs heavy in the air as hands, practiced and loving, shape golden crescents filled with a sweet, nutty heart – Gujiyas, a symbol of joy and prosperity shared amongst family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup ghee
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup khoya (dry milk solids)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
• 1/4 cup grated coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Combine the flour and ghee in a bowl. Add water gradually and knead until a soft dough forms. Set aside for 30 minutes.
2. While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the khoya, sugar, nuts, coconut, and cardamom powder. Mix well.
3. Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the circle in half to form a semi-circle, and seal the edges with a fork.
5. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the gujiyas until golden brown.
6. Remove the gujiyas from the oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm or cold.

Tips & Variation:

• Make sure the filling is not too wet, or the gujiyas will fall apart.
• Fry the gujiyas in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.