Authentic Indian Gujia Recipe for Holi Festival

Ingredients

  • 1 cup maida (all purpose flour)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter), plus extra for deep frying
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup water, or as needed for dough
  • 1 cup khoya (milk solids)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped dry fruits (like almonds, cashews, and raisins)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg powder

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the maida, 2 tablespoons of ghee, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water to form a firm dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
  2. While the dough is resting, heat a pan over medium heat. Add the khoya to the pan and roast until it turns golden. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the pan from the heat and let the khoya cool. Once cooled, add the powdered sugar, chopped dry fruits, cardamom powder, desiccated coconut, and nutmeg powder. Mix well to combine.
  4. After the dough has rested, divide it into small equal portions. Roll each portion into a small round disc.
  5. Place a spoonful of the khoya mixture in the center of each disc. Fold the disc in half and seal the edges by pressing them together. You can also use a fork to create a decorative pattern along the sealed edges.
  6. Heat ghee in a deep pan over medium heat for deep frying. Once the ghee is hot, fry the gujias until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess ghee.
  7. Let the gujias cool before serving. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - for mixing the dough and other ingredients
  • Pan - for roasting the khoya
  • Rolling pin - for rolling out the dough
  • Fork - for sealing the edges of the gujias and creating decorative patterns
  • Deep pan - for deep frying the gujias
  • Paper towels - for draining excess ghee from the fried gujias
  • Airtight container - for storing the gujias

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier crust.
  • Add a teaspoon of saffron strands to the khoya mixture for a fragrant and vibrant twist.
  • Include a tablespoon of semolina (sooji) in the dough for added texture.
  • Replace the khoya filling with a mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom powder for a traditional coconut gujia.
  • Add a tablespoon of rose water or kewra water to the khoya mixture for a floral flavor.
  • For a fruity variation, add finely chopped dried fruits like dates, figs, or cranberries to the khoya filling.
  • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for chocolate-flavored gujias.
  • Make a savory version by replacing the sweet filling with a mixture of spiced mashed potatoes, peas, and paneer.

Recipe overview

Gujia is a delightful traditional Indian sweet that is often prepared during festive occasions like Holi and Diwali. This pastry-like dessert is made by filling a dough made of maida (all-purpose flour) with a mixture of sweetened khoya (milk solids) and dry fruits, then deep-frying until golden and crisp. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the process of making Gujia at home, from preparing the dough to making the rich and sweet filling, and finally, deep frying them to perfection. While the recipe might seem a bit challenging at first, you'll find that with a little practice, you can make these delicious sweets at home with ease. So let's get started and bring a taste of Indian festivity to your kitchen!

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of maida?
    Yes, you can substitute maida with whole wheat flour for a healthier version of gujias. However, the texture and taste may differ slightly.
  2. Can I use store-bought khoya instead of making it at home?
    Yes, you can use store-bought khoya if you don't want to make it from scratch. Make sure to use unsweetened khoya for this recipe.
  3. Can I use any other type of fat for deep frying instead of ghee?
    Ghee is traditionally used for deep frying gujias as it adds a rich flavor. However, you can use any other type of cooking oil if you prefer.
  4. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
    Absolutely! The filling can be customized according to your taste. You can add grated coconut, saffron strands, or even chocolate chips to enhance the flavor.
  5. How do I ensure that the gujias are properly sealed?
    Make sure to press the edges firmly together to seal the gujias. You can also use a fork to create a decorative pattern along the sealed edges for a better seal.
  6. Can I bake the gujias instead of deep frying them?
    Gujias are traditionally deep-fried to achieve a crispy texture. However, if you prefer a healthier version, you can try baking them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
  7. How long can I store the gujias?
    Gujias can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Gujia, a sweet dumpling filled with a delightful mix of dried fruits and dairy delicacies, holds a special place in the heart of Indian cuisine. These sweet turnovers are intricately associated with the joyous festival of Holi, the Indian festival of colors marking the onset of spring. Interestingly, the tradition of making Gujia during Holi is said to have been inspired by the legendary love of Lord Krishna for sweets. The art of preparing these sweet pockets of pleasure is passed down through generations and every region in India has its own unique spin on the recipe. The crispy outer layer that gives way to the soft, sweet filling, mirrors the essence of the Holi festival - crisp with excitement and filled with sweetness and joy. Today, Gujia has become an integral part of Indian festivities, bridging the gap between mythological lore and culinary delight.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.