Jodhpur's Sweets and Desserts: Indulge in Sweet Temptations

Jodhpur, the "Blue City", is known for its vibrant indigo-hued architecture, and is a treasure trove of cultural and culinary delights. The city's history is mirrored in its diverse range of sweets and desserts, each carrying the essence of Rajasthani tradition and artistry. From grand royal feasts to humble street-side offerings, Jodhpur's sweets are a testament to the region's love for flavors. These meethais are more than just desserts; they are integral to the city's festivals, rituals, and daily life, embodying stories of joy, celebration, and heritage. As you stroll through Jodhpur's bustling markets, the aroma of freshly prepared sweets is hard to resist. 

1. Mawa Kachori

Mawa Kachori is a unique Rajasthani sweet, believed to have been invented in Jodhpur. It combines the savoury concept of kachori with a sweet filling, creating a delightful surprise for the taste buds. This sweet is often prepared during special occasions and festivals, adding a touch of novelty and indulgence to celebrations. The outer shell is made from flour and ghee and is filled with a mixture of mawa (reduced milk), nuts, and sugar. The kachoris are deep-fried until golden and then soaked in sugar syrup to enhance their sweetness.

Where: For the best Mawa Kachori in Jodhpur, head to Janta Sweet Home or Mohanji Sweets, where this sweet treat is made using traditional recipes.

2. Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun, one of India's most popular sweets, has its roots in medieval Persia. It was introduced to India by the Mughals and has since become a staple in Indian desserts. Gulab Jamun is a must-have at weddings, festivals, and celebratory events. Its round shape and golden hue symbolise perfection and auspiciousness. This sweet is made from khoya (dried milk) and flour, rolled into small balls, and deep-fried until golden brown. These balls are then soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup flavoured with rose water and cardamom.

Where: For mouth-watering Gulab Jamun, go to Chaturbhuj, where the quality and flavour are unmatched.

3. Moti Chur Laddo

Moti Chur Laddo, made from tiny, pearl-like balls of gram flour, is a traditional Rajasthani sweet that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its name translates to "pearl crumb balls," reflecting its texture and appearance. These laddus are a favorite during festivals like Diwali and Holi, symbolising joy and prosperity. They are also commonly offered during religious ceremonies and weddings. Besan batter is fried into tiny balls, which are then soaked in sugar syrup. These soaked balls are shaped into laddus and often garnished with nuts and silver foil.

Where: To taste the finest Moti Chur Laddo in Jodhpur, head to Jodhpur Sweets

4. Besan ki Chakki

Besan ki Chakki, a traditional gram flour fudge, has its roots in Rajasthan's royal kitchens. It is known for its rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture and nutty flavor. This sweet is commonly prepared during festivals like Diwali and Raksha Bandhan, symbolizing celebration and togetherness. It is also a popular choice for gifting. Besan is roasted in ghee until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Sugar syrup is added, and the mixture is cooked until it thickens. It is then spread onto a tray, allowed to set and cut into pieces.

Where: For the best Besan ki Chakki in Jodhpur, visit Moolji.

5. Ghevar

Traditional Ghevar is  a disc-shaped sweet with a honeycomb texture. They also have a smaller version of this dish, called Katori Ghevar. It originated in Rajasthan and is a festive favourite, especially during Teej and Raksha Bandhan. Ghevar is synonymous with Rajasthani festivals, representing joy and abundance. It is often used in offerings to deities and shared among family and friends. The batter, made from flour, ghee, and milk, is poured into hot ghee and fried until it forms a honeycomb-like disc. The fried ghevar is then soaked in sugar syrup and shaped into circular forms, filled with rabri, and garnished with nuts and saffron.

Where: For authentic Ghevar, head to Janta Sweet Home, Jodhpur Sweets or Mangal Ji Sweets in Jodhpur.

6. Jalebi

Jalebi, with its origins tracing back to ancient Persia, is a popular sweet across India. It was brought to India by Persian traders and has since been adopted and adapted into various regional cuisines, including that of Rajasthan. Jalebi is a staple at Indian weddings, festivals, and fairs. It is often enjoyed with milk or yogurt as part of a traditional breakfast in many parts of Rajasthan. Made from a batter of flour, water, and a hint of kesar, jalebi is deep-fried into spiral shapes and then soaked in chashni. The result is a crispy, sweet, and sticky treat.

Where:  Arora Namkeen, Jodhpur Sweets, Motu Jalebi Wala are the best for jalebi in Jodhpur, where this sweet is made fresh daily.

7. Rabri Dhoodh

Rabri Dhoodh is a luxurious dessert that has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. It is a rich, creamy concoction made by reducing milk to a thick consistency and adding sugar and spices. This sweet is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. It is also used as a base for other desserts and is considered a royal treat due to its rich and indulgent nature. Milk is boiled and simmered over a low flame until it thickens and reduces to a creamy consistency. Sugar, elaichi (cardamom), and sometimes kesar are added for flavour. The mixture is then served garnished with nuts.They are a hit especially during winters.

Where: To savour the best Rabri Milk in Jodhpur, visit Doodh Mandir, Chokhi Dhani or Shri Mishrilal Hotel, where traditional methods are used to prepare this decadent dessert.

8. Rabri Ladoo

Rabri Ladoo is fried in desi ghee and sweetened with syrup. The droplets of Rabri (milk and besan) are mixed well with a handful of dry rose petals and elaichi (cardamom) ,which builds in delicious flavour and intensity. It is said that rabri was first invented in India's historic city of Mathura and then finessed and refined in the city of Varanasi. And this Rabri Ladoo takes it to another level altogether.

Where: Grab the yummiest Rabri Ladoos at Mohanji Mithaiwala.