JALEBI Meaning and
Definition
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Jalebi is a popular Indian sweet dish that is made by deep-frying a wheat flour batter which is fermented overnight. It is then soaked in a sugar syrup to add a rich sweet flavor. Jalebi is characterized by its unique spiral or pretzel-like shape, which is created by drizzling the batter in a hot frying pan or kadai in a circular motion.
The dough used to make jalebi is made by mixing wheat flour, yogurt, and water, which is then left to ferment overnight. This fermentation process gives the jalebi a distinctly tangy taste. Once the dough has fermented, it is transferred into a muslin cloth or a plastic squeeze bottle to create the spiral shape while frying.
After frying, the jalebis are dipped into a thick sugar syrup, which imparts a sweet and sticky texture to the dish. Sometimes, saffron strands or rose water are added to the syrup to enhance the aroma and flavor.
Jalebi is often served hot as a dessert or consumed with milk as a breakfast dish. It is also commonly enjoyed during festive occasions like weddings and religious ceremonies. This delicious sweet treat is known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, making it a beloved dish in Indian cuisine.
Etymology of JALEBI
The word "jalebi" comes from the Arabic word "z̧ulabiyya", which refers to a sweet fried dough pastry. It is said that the dish was introduced to the Indian subcontinent through Persian and Arabic influences during ancient times. Over time, the pronunciation of "z̧ulabiyya" transformed into "jalebi" in the Indian subcontinent. The dessert is now well-known and enjoyed in various regions of South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.
