11 Indian Desserts Reimagined for Health-Conscious Foodies

2. Jaggery-Sweetened Gulab Jamun (Baked or Air-Fried)

Gulab jamun’s soft, syrup-soaked rounds are a comfort dessert across households. To reduce refined sugar without losing syrupy charm, make a jaggery syrup instead of plain sugar syrup. Use small blocks of jaggery melted with water and a dash of lemon to prevent crystallization, then strain. For a lighter method, shape the dough from low-fat khoya alternatives or a mix of paneer and milk powder, then bake or air-fry the balls instead of deep-frying. Baking creates a different crisp that still absorbs syrup nicely. If using an air fryer, spray the balls lightly with oil and check them often to avoid over-browning. After cooking, soak briefly in warm jaggery syrup so the jamuns stay soft. Garnish with slivered pistachios and a hint of rosewater for tradition. These changes cut frying oil and refined sugar while keeping the familiar soft center and rose-scented finish that make gulab jamun so beloved.