SWEET RECIPE

Balushahi, also known as Badhusha, is a popular Indian dessert that is known for its crispy, flaky texture and sweet, syrupy taste. This delectable dessert is made by frying small, doughnut-shaped balls of dough in oil and then soaking them in a sugary syrup. In this article, we will discuss the traditional recipe for Badhusha and the steps required to make this delicious dessert.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour

2. 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter

3. 1/4 cup plain yogurt

4. 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

5. 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

6. 1/4 cup water

7. Oil for deep frying

For the syrup:

1. 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

2. 3/4 cup water

3. 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

4. 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cardamom powder. Mix well.

2. Add the ghee or unsalted butter to the flour mixture and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add the yogurt and water to the mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. Be sure not to overmix the dough.

4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

5. While the dough is resting, make the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water and bring to a boil. Add the cardamom powder and rose water (if using) and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the syrup until it thickens to a one-string consistency. Turn off the heat and set the syrup aside.

6. After the dough has rested, divide it into small, equal-sized balls. Use your palms to roll the balls into smooth, doughnut-shaped disks.

7. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the dough disks to the pan, a few at a time. Fry the dough until they are golden brown on all sides.

8. Once the dough is fried, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel to drain off any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining dough.

9. While the dough is still warm, carefully drop it into the syrup and let it soak for 3-4 minutes. Gently stir the dough in the syrup to ensure that it is evenly coated.

10. After the dough has soaked in the syrup, remove it from the syrup and place it on a wire rack to cool. Repeat this process with the remaining dough.

11. Once the Badhusha has cooled, it is ready to serve. You can garnish it with chopped pistachios, almonds, or cashews for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips:

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough balls. If the oil is not hot enough, the badhusha will absorb more oil and become greasy.
• Do not over-knead the dough, as it can make the badhusha tough and chewy.
• Make sure the sugar syrup is warm when you add the badhusha to it. If the syrup is too hot, the badhusha can become too soft and mushy.
• You can add a few drops of lemon juice to the sugar syrup to prevent crystallization.
• You can garnish the badhusha with chopped nuts like pistachios, almonds, or cashews to add some texture and flavor.

In conclusion, Badhusha is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family. While the recipe requires a bit of effort and time, the end result is well worth it. With its crispy, flaky texture and sweet syrupy taste, Badhusha is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.