Easy Malpua Recipe – Traditional Indian Sweet Pancakes

Malpua is a traditional Indian sweet pancake, popular during festivals like Holi and Diwali. Made with a simple batter of all-purpose flour, semolina, and milk, these golden-brown fritters are soaked in sugar syrup and often served with rabri (sweet condensed milk).

Ingredients

• For the batter:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
  • ½ cup semolina (rava)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ½ teaspoon fennel seeds powder
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1 cup milk (adjust as needed)
  • Water, as required
• For the sugar syrup:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
  • A few saffron strands (optional)
• For frying:
  • Oil or ghee, as required
• For garnishing:
  • Chopped dry fruits (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, and sugar.
2. Add fennel seeds powder and cardamom powder to the mixture.
3. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, until you achieve a smooth batter of pouring consistency.
4. Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for 30 minutes.

Preparing the Sugar Syrup

1. In a wide pan, combine sugar and water.
2. Heat the mixture over medium flame until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using).
4. Simmer the syrup for 10 minutes until it reaches a sticky consistency.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Frying the Malpua

1. Heat oil or ghee in a shallow frying pan over medium heat.
2. Once hot, pour 2–3 tablespoons of batter into the pan, spreading it slightly to form a round shape.
3. Fry until the edges turn golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.
4. Remove from the pan and drain excess oil on a paper towel.

Soaking in Sugar Syrup

1. Immediately dip the fried malpua into the warm sugar syrup.
2. Soak each side for about 5 minutes to absorb the syrup.
3. Remove and place on a serving plate.

Serving

1. Garnish with chopped dry fruits, if desired.
2. Serve hot with rabri or enjoy as is.

Tips for Perfect Malpua

• Consistency of Batter: Ensure the batter is of pouring consistency; not too thick or too runny.
• Frying Temperature: Maintain medium heat while frying to ensure even cooking without burning.
• Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest helps in better fermentation, resulting in fluffier malpua.
• Sugar Syrup Consistency: The syrup should be sticky, not too thick or thin, to ensure proper absorption.

Variations

• Banana Malpua: Incorporate mashed ripe bananas into the batter for added flavor and sweetness.
• Milk Powder Malpua: Use milk powder in place of some flour for a richer taste.
• Instant Malpua: Combine milk powder, semolina, and milk for a quick preparation without the need for fermentation.

Final Thoughts

Malpua is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of milk and the crunchiness of fried dough, soaked in sweet syrup. Whether prepared traditionally or with a twist, it remains a favorite during festive occasions. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different tastes.