Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm across Guyana. One of the traditional sweets enjoyed during this festive season is Gujiya.
Gujiya [Photo: Pillsbury]
Gujiya is a sweet dumpling made with a filling of khoya (milk solids), coconut, nuts, and dried fruits, enveloped in a crispy, deep-fried pastry shell.
This delectable treat is not only a symbol of the joyous occasion but also a delightful indulgence for the taste buds.
INGREDIENTS: FOR THE DOUGH
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- Water, as needed
FOR THE FILLING
- 1 cup khoya (milk solids)
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, dates)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- Oil for frying
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and ghee.
- Gradually add water and knead into a firm dough.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling
- In a pan, roast the khoya until it turns light golden brown.
- Add the grated coconut, chopped nuts, and dried fruits. Mix well.
- Add the powdered sugar and cardamom powder. Mix until well combined.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool down.
- Shape the Gujiyas
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a small circle.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the circle in half to form a semi-circle and press the edges to seal. You can use a gujiya mold for a decorative edge.
- Fry the Gujiyas
- Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
- Gently slide the Gujiyas into the hot oil and fry on low-medium heat until they turn golden brown.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
How to make Gujiya – Step-by-step guide
SERVE AND ENJOY
Serve the Gujiyas warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for several days.
GUJIYA VARIATIONS
Chocolate Gujiya: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
Fruity Gujiya: Add dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or blueberries to the filling for a fruity flavour.
Nutty Gujiya: Increase the quantity of nuts or add different varieties of nuts for a nuttier taste.
ARTICLE REFERENCE
- https://www.alicaspepperpot.com/goja-gujiya-spiced-coconut-turnover/
- https://www.pillsbury.in/recipes/gujiya/
