Baadusha

Baadusha is a traditional South Indian sweet, often made during festivals and special occasions. It is a soft, sweet, and mildly flavored deep-fried pastry that is usually soaked in sugar syrup.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter), melted
• 1/2 cup yogurt (plain curd)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt

For the Sugar Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• A few saffron strands (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

For Frying:

• Ghee or oil for deep frying

Instructions:

Making the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, melted ghee, yogurt, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.

2. Mix the ingredients well to form a smooth and soft dough. If the dough is too dry, add a little more yogurt. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour.

3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Making the Sugar Syrup:

4. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.

5. Add saffron strands (if using) and cardamom powder to the sugar syrup. Simmer for a few more minutes until the syrup slightly thickens. Then, remove it from the heat and keep it warm.

Shaping and Frying Baadusha:

6. Divide the rested dough into equal-sized small balls and flatten them slightly to form discs or patties. Make a small dent in the center of each disc using your thumb.

7. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium-low heat.

8. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the flattened dough discs in batches and fry them until they turn golden brown and crisp on both sides. Fry them on low to medium heat to ensure even cooking.

9. Once fried, remove the Baadusha from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Soaking Baadusha in Sugar Syrup:

10. While the Baadusha is still warm, gently dip them into the warm sugar syrup, ensuring that they are coated well with the syrup.

11. Allow the Baadusha to soak in the syrup for a few minutes, then remove them and place them on a serving plate.

12. Repeat the frying and soaking process with the remaining dough discs.

13. Let the Baadusha cool down completely before serving. They will absorb the sugar syrup and become soft and sweet.

14. Garnish with chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or cashews if desired, and serve.

Enjoy these delicious and festive Baadusha with your loved ones!