Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra is known for his exceptional athleticism and disciplined lifestyle. However, even champions have their sweet tooth! In a recent interview, the javelin star revealed his fondness for traditional Indian sweets. Let’s delve into the world of Neeraj’s favorite desserts and learn how to recreate these delectable treats.
Gulab Jamun: A Champion’s Choice
Neeraj Chopra has confessed to being a big fan of Gulab Jamun with ice cream. “Sometimes I like to eat gulab jamun with ice cream. I don’t know how many people would have tried this combination, but I find it very enjoyable,” Neeraj said in his recent interview. This classic Indian dessert, made from milk solids, sugar, and rose water, is a favorite among many. Its soft, spongy texture and sweet syrup make it irresistible. Let’s try making this champion’s favorite at home.
Ingredients:
- 250g khoya (milk solids)
- 50g maida (all-purpose flour)
- 10g powdered sugar
- 2-3 drops of rose water
- A pinch of cardamom powder
- Oil for deep frying
For the sugar syrup:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- A few drops of lemon juice
- A few strands of saffron
Instructions:
Prepare the dough: Crumble the khoya in a bowl. Add maida, powdered sugar, rose water, and cardamom powder. Knead into a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Shape the jamuns: Divide the dough into small equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Deep fry: Heat oil in a deep pan. Carefully drop the balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Make the sugar syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, skimming off any impurities. Reduce heat and simmer until the syrup thickens and reaches a one-string consistency. Add saffron.
Soak the jamuns: Immerse the fried jamuns in the warm sugar syrup. Let them soak for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. Serve warm or cold.
Kalakand: Creamy Delight
Another sweet that finds a place in Neeraj Chopra’s heart is kalakand. This rich and creamy Indian milk cake is a perfect blend of sweetness and richness. Let’s explore the recipe for this mouthwatering dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter full-cream milk
- 200g sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few slivered almonds for garnish
Instructions:
Reduce the milk: In a thick-bottomed pan, heat the milk on medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Reduce the milk to about 1/4th of its original quantity. This process may take about 1-2 hours.
Add sugar and lemon juice: Once the milk is reduced, add sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.
Curdle the milk: Add lemon juice gradually while stirring continuously. The milk will start to curdle.
Separate the paneer: Strain the curdled milk through a muslin cloth. Discard the whey.
Heat the paneer: Place the collected paneer in a heavy-bottomed pan. Heat on low heat, stirring continuously until all the moisture evaporates and the paneer becomes crumbly.
Add flavorings: Remove from heat and add cardamom powder. Mash the paneer to a smooth texture.
Shape and garnish: Transfer the mixture to a greased dish. Level the surface and garnish with slivered almonds. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Churma: A Homely Sweet
Hailing from Haryana, Neeraj Chopra has a special fondness for homemade churma. This sweet dish, made from crushed wheat, ghee, and sugar, is a staple in many Indian households, especially during festivals. Let’s recreate this delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup ghee
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A handful of dry fruits (optional)
Instructions:
Roast the flour: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat. Add the wheat flour and roast until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Prepare the ghee: In a separate pan, heat the ghee until it melts completely.
Combine ingredients: Add the roasted flour to the melted ghee and mix well.
Sweeten: Add sugar and cardamom powder to the mixture. Mix thoroughly.
Add dry fruits: If using, add chopped dry fruits to the mixture.
Serve: Let the churma cool completely before serving. It can be stored in an airtight container for later use.
Indulge your sweet tooth and recreate these delectable treats enjoyed by the golden boy of Indian athletics, Neeraj Chopra. These classic Indian sweets are not just mouthwatering but also hold cultural significance. With the festive season of Diwali approaching, why not surprise your loved ones with homemade gulab jamun, kalakand, and churma? Also, whether you’re hosting a grand wedding or a grand corporate event, try to include these sweets in your menu with the help of premium wedding caterers to impress your guests.
