Hariyali Teej Malpua Recipe: Make Juicy Saffron Malpua This Festival Season

Hariyali Teej, a vibrant festival celebrated in India, marks the onset of the monsoon season. It is observed by married women who fast and pray for the well-being of their husbands. During this festive occasion, delicious sweets and traditional dishes play a key role in the celebrations. One such irresistible dish that is often prepared for Hariyali Teej is Malpua—a deep-fried, fluffy, and juicy Indian pancake drizzled with sugar syrup.

Here’s a simple yet delectable recipe for Saffron Malpua that will not only elevate your Hariyali Teej celebrations but will also make you ask for more!

Ingredients:

For Malpua:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 cup semolina (sooji)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
• A pinch of saffron strands
• A few drops of rose water (optional)
• Ghee or oil for frying

For Sugar Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• A pinch of saffron strands (for added color and fragrance)
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
2. Stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar completely.
3. Add a pinch of saffron strands, cardamom powder, and lemon juice to prevent crystallization.
4. Let the syrup simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a slightly sticky consistency.
5. Remove from heat and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Malpua Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the milk and water to the dry ingredients while mixing continuously to form a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps.
3. Add the saffron strands (soaked in a little warm water or milk), cardamom powder, and ghee to the batter. Mix well.
4. Add baking soda and a few drops of rose water (optional). Mix again to incorporate everything thoroughly. The batter should have a pouring consistency, not too thick nor too runny.
5. Let the batter rest for 20-30 minutes to help the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Fry the Malpua

1. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop a small ladle of batter into the hot oil. The batter should spread slightly into a round shape as it fries.
3. Fry the malpua until it turns golden brown on both sides. Flip the malpua carefully to ensure even cooking.
4. Remove from the oil and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

Step 4: Soak in Sugar Syrup

1. Dip the fried malpua immediately into the warm sugar syrup. Let it soak for about 1-2 minutes so it absorbs the syrup and becomes juicy.
2. Remove the malpua from the syrup and place it on a serving plate.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the malpua with chopped pistachios, almonds, or a sprinkle of rose petals to enhance the festive look.
2. Serve the malpua warm or at room temperature as a sweet treat during Hariyali Teej celebrations.

Tips for Perfect Malpua:

• Consistency of the batter: Ensure the batter is smooth and lump-free. It should be thick enough to hold shape but thin enough to spread slightly when dropped into the oil.
• Frying temperature: Maintain the oil temperature on medium heat. If the oil is too hot, the malpua will burn on the outside and remain raw inside.
• Sugar syrup: The sugar syrup should be warm when you dip the malpua. This allows it to soak in the syrup evenly, making it juicy and sweet.
• Flavor variations: Add a little rose water or kewra water for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor of malpua.

Why Make Saffron Malpua for Hariyali Teej?

Saffron not only adds a beautiful color to the malpua but also a distinct fragrance that makes it perfect for a festival like Hariyali Teej. The golden hue of the malpua symbolizes prosperity and good luck, while the sweet syrupy goodness ensures that it’s a treat everyone will remember.

This Saffron Malpua is a perfect combination of crispy, soft, and juicy, making it the ideal sweet to share with family and friends during Hariyali Teej. Whether you are fasting or feasting, these malpua are sure to be the highlight of your celebrations.

Enjoy making this delightful dessert and wishing you all a joyful Hariyali Teej!