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National Sweet of India: Jalebi

Last Updated : 19 Mar, 2024
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Jalebi is the national sweet of India. It is made up of refined wheat flour. It is very sweet and delicious in taste. Jalebi is the part of Indian culture. This special isn’t just about taste; it’s a part of our culture and heritage. It is passed down through generations. From grand festivals to cozy family gatherings, this sweet treat makes every moment sweeter. Jalebi is orange-yellow in color. Although , there are several verities of Jalebis are there in India based on location and culture.

National-Sweet-of-India

National Sweet Of India

Every year, during Republic Day and Independence Day, Jalebi is distributed in schools and colleges as it marks as national sweet of India. Let’s know more about National Sweet of India in detailed below.

National Sweet of India – Jalebi

The national sweet of India is Jalebi. It is one of the most sweetest Indian sweets. This delightful sweet is made from Maida (refined flour) and sugar syrup, often infused with saffron for added color and aroma. When it comes to sweet dishes, India has a rich and diverse variety of sweets that tastes incredible. It also reflects the country’s cultural heritage. Among these sweet dishes, one dish stands out as the national sweet of India is – the beloved Jalebi. Jalebi has won over the hearts of millions of people in the country and abroad with its wonderful spirals of golden syrup, crispy outside, and sticky inside nature.

You can find different flavors and variants of Jalebi sweet in almost all parts of India. Each year, During Republic and Independence Day, it is distributed across country as an offerings.

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National Sweet of India: Overview

Information Details
Name Jalebi
Type Sweet
Origin Ancient India
Ingredients Maida (flour), sugar syrup
Popular Variations Imarti, Jangiri, Zulbia
Cultural Significance Integral part of festivals and weddings
Celebration Occasions Diwali, Eid, weddings
Associated Festivals Diwali, Holi, Eid
Regional Differences Various shapes and sizes across regions
Historical References Mentioned in ancient Indian texts
Modern Adaptations Filled with cream or chocolate, served with ice cream
Popular Accompaniments Rabri, milk, yogurt
Symbolism Represents celebration and indulgence
Availability Widely available in sweet shops
Recognition India’s national sweet
Exported Globally Yes

Jalebi is a popular and traditional sweet dish in India. It’s a fried batter that is dip-fried in hot sugar syrup to make it juicy and soft. Jalebi is crispy on the outside and syrupy on the inside. It’s a popular sweet among people of all age groups. It’s an essential part of many festivals, weddings, and other occasions.

Jalebi is made with all-purpose flour, yogurt, and food coloring, depending on the desired color. The batter is then piped into hot oil and fried until crispy. After frying, it’s dipped into hot sugar syrup, where it soaks up the syrup’s sweetness. Jalebi is enjoyed across each state of India. Each region has its unique style and variation of making it.

Some popular variations of jalebi in India are Kesari Jalebi, Mawa Jalebi, and Namkeen Jalebi. Jalebi can be stored for a few days without refrigeration.

History of Jalebi in India

Jalebi represents the cultural heritage of Indian food history. This sweet was originally originated from Middle East and brought to India by Persian invaders. Jalebi has undergone regional adaptations, resulting in various names and slight variations in ingredients across different states of India. In India, Jalebi was invented by Harprasad Badkul, in the year 1889, in Jabalpur. In ancient times, Jalebi was popularly known as ‘Kundalika’ or ‘Jilapi.’

One of the earliest mentions of Jalebi in Indian literature can be found in the 13th-century Jain work, “Priyamkarnrpakatha.” Since then, Jalebi has become an integral part of Indian culinary culture. It is mainly made during festivals, celebrations, and every function.

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Jalebi and its Indian Cousins

Although jalebi is the most popular dessert in India, it is not the only one in the kingdom of Indian sweets. There are many different types of jalebi throughout the various parts of the nation.

Jalebi is frequently eaten with creamy rabri, a rich condensed milk delicacy, or hot samosas in the northern Indian states. It’s hard to resist the beautiful mix of textures and flavors created by the marriage of crispy Jalebi and creamy Rabra.

Gujarat, a western state, has a snack called Fafda that is similar to jalebi but prepared with gram flour instead of flour. This unlikely pairing of sweet and savory has become a popular breakfast or tea-time treat.

Jalebi

Jalebi in Indian shop

Down south in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Jalebi takes on a slightly different avatar known as Jangiri or Imarti. These delicate, flower-shaped sweets are made from urad dal batter and soaked in sugar syrup. It offers a softer texture compared to the crispiness of traditional Jalebi.

In the eastern states of West Bengal and Odisha, Jalebi’s alternative is called Jilapi. It is made from maida flour and deep-fried. Jilapi has a unique spiral shape and is often enjoyed during special occasions like weddings and religious ceremonies.

Types of Jalebis Available in India

India is famous for the variety of foods. Jalebi is undoubtedly one of the most recognized and loved sweet dishes in India. Jalebi is made by dipping a flour-based batter in sugar syrup. Here are the ten most popular types of jalebis available in India:

  • Plain Jalebi
  • Kesari Jalebi
  • Mawa Jalebi
  • Rabri Jalebi
  • Namkeen Jalebi
  • Aloo Jalebi
  • Fruit Jalebi
  • Coconut Jalebi
  • Chocolate Jalebi
  • Paneer Jalebi

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Jalebi holds a special place as the national sweet of India. Its crispy and syrupy texture have made it a beloved dessert across the country. Whether enjoyed plain or with various regional variations, jalebi brings joy and a burst of flavors.

Its popularity make it a true iconic sweet dish that represents the rich culinary heritage of India. So, if ever got a chance to try jalebi, don’t miss out on experiencing this delightful treat that captures the essence of Indian sweets.

National Sweet of India – FAQs

Which is the national sweet of India?

Jalebi is the national sweet of India. it is made up of Maida (refined flour) and sugar syrup, often infused with saffron for added color and aroma.

What is India’s No 1 sweet?

India’s No. 1 sweet is often considered to be “Gulab Jamun,” a delectable dessert made from khoya (reduced milk) dough, fried to golden perfection, and soaked in a sugar syrup infused with rose water and cardamom. Its irresistible taste and widespread popularity across the country make it a top choice for sweet lovers.

What is the first Indian sweet?

“Laddu” is often regarded as one of the earliest Indian sweets. Originating from ancient times, this round, bite-sized sweet is made from ingredients like gram flour, sugar, and ghee, forming a traditional treat enjoyed during festive occasions and religious ceremonies.

What is the national sweet of China?

China’s national sweet is “Tanghulu,” a traditional snack made by skewering fruits like hawthorn berries, grapes, or strawberries and coating them in a hardened sugar glaze. It’s a popular street food enjoyed by people of all ages across the country.



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