The soft, syrup-soaked, spongy Gulab Jamun are everyone's favorite. In fact, it is one of the most loved and eaten sweets of Indian tradition. Due to its increased popularity over the past few years, you will find this sweet in almost all the South Asian weddings and occasions, And not only this, but you will also find Gulab Jamun being served in many cafes and restaurants across the US.
Since Gulab Jamun is the highlight of every party, but what happens when you make or buy too many? The big question arises; can you freeze Gulab Jamun? And the short answer remains; yes! You can surely freeze Gulab Jamun. However, you must know the right way of doing so.
This blog is all about educating you about the tips, tricks, and right way to store Gulab Jamun. After this guide, you'll know how freeze the leftover Gulab Jamun to enjoy them later.
Why Is Freezing Gulab Jamun A Good Idea?
When you buy or make Gulab Jamun, they are usually in a batch. Since this dessert is quite rich and heavy, you can eat a few pieces. So, what can you do with the left over Gulab Jamun? You store them.
Freezing Gulab Jamun doesn't only help you in preventing wastage of food but also extend the Gulab Jamun shelf life. Above all, when you store Gulab Jamun, you always have a quick dessert option ready to eat in the freezer.
Smart people plan ahead of time. So, if you're planning to make Gulab Jamun for a party at home, then freezing can help you out as well. You can make a batch, freeze it, and then serve it fresh by reheating. That way, you do not only save time on the big day but also get chance to enjoy the gathering.
Make it fresh using our Gulab Jamun recipe before freezing.
Can You Freeze Gulab Jamun with Syrup?
There are two ways of freezing Gulab Jamun.
- Freezing with syrup: After preparing Gulab Jamun, cool down both Gulab Jamun and its syrup. Then transfer them to a freezer friendly container and seal tightly before placing it in the freezer.
With this method, Gulab Jamun stay moist. However, the syrup might crystallize slightly when you thaw them. - Freezing without syrup: Cool down the fried Gulab Jamun completely. Place them on a tray and put it in the freezer so the Gulab Jamuns can set. Once they're firm. transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or zip bag.
Freezing only the fried jamun balls and adding fresh syrup later gives a better texture. This is the preferred method if you want them to taste closest to fresh.
Both methods have their own advantages. But if you want to have soft, moist, and delicious just as a fresh batch, then freeze Gulab Jamun without syrup. When it is time to eat, take them out of freezer, thaw them and pour a freshly prepared syrup on them.
For How Long Can You Freeze Gulab Jamun?
If you store Gulab Jamun properly in the freezer, they can last up to 2-3 months. Try to eat them within this time period to experience the best taste and texture. After this time period, their texture may change into more chewy and rubbery one.
If you want to store them in the refrigerator, the Gulab Jamun shelf life is up to 7 days. However, you must store them in an airtight container.
Tips To Keep Gulab Jamun Fresh
Here are a few tips to store Gulab Jamun properly if you wish to enjoy its flavor as good as a newly prepared batch.
- Freeze when completely cooled: To prevent the formation of ice crystals and ruined texture, always store Gulab Jamun when they're completely cooled down.
- Use airtight containers: Using airtight containers to store Gulab Jamun prevents air burns and keeps the sweetness intact.
- Freeze in portions: Freeze in smaller portions so you can thaw only what you need. This prevents wastage of food.
- Reheat in syrup: If you wish to have a soft Gulab Jamun bite that melts in your mouth, then always soak your thawed Gulab Jamun in warm syrup.
Common Mistake To Avoid When Freezing Gulab Jamun
Freezing Gulab Jamun can be easier to hear but it is a tricky task if not done properly. The main purpose of storing leftover Gulab Jamun is to enjoy them later with the same soft texture as fresh ones. Many people face problems when trying to freeze Gulab Jamun. If you want perfect results, here are some common mistakes that you can avoid.
- Freezing without cooling down the freshly fried Gulab Jamun
- Using thin or leaky containers for storage
- Storing beyond 3 months time
- Forgetting to soak in syrup while serving
- Freezing stale Gulab Jamun instead of freshly made ones.
For a detailed guide, check our blog on 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Making Gulab Jamun for more helpful tips.
Final Thoughts
If you're also wondering can you save Gulab Jamun? The answer is yes you can. In fact, it is easier than most people think. Using the right methods, you can easily store Gulab Jamun, whether you're trying to store the leftover Gulab Jamun, planning ahead of time for a gathering at home, or storing for your future cravings. Freezing works well when you follow proper tips and tricks.
So, it is your sign to prepare a fresh batch of Gulab Jamun using FoodVLove's recipe and freeze them to enjoy any time. For more dessert ideas and smart tips, explore FoodVLove and bring sweetness to your table.
FAQs
Yes you can. And in fact, this is the best method to freeze Gulab Jamun because you can add freshly made warm syrup in the future when you want to enjoy the same soft texture of thawed Gulab Jamun.
Not much, if you freeze and thaw them correctly. But old gulab jamun will not taste the same even if frozen. So, it is always advised to freeze a freshly made batch.
They last up to 7 days when stored in an airtight container and fully soaked in syrup.
Freezing is better for long-term use and for short-term use, you can refrigerate the Gulab Jamun.
Gulab jamun usually stays good at room temperature for 4 to 5 days. You can refrigerate and freeze them, too. If you are refrigerating, you can reheat them in the microwave for 30 seconds and serve warm or bring them to room temperature and serve.
Yes, you can reheat gulab jamun. The best way is to warm them gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or on the stove by placing them in their syrup over low heat. Avoid overheating to prevent them from becoming too soft or breaking apart.
Yes, you can freeze gulab jamun. Place them in an airtight container with a little syrup to keep them moist. When ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator and warm gently before eating for the best taste and texture.
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