What Are Gujiyas And When Do You Eat Them?

Have you eaten gujiyas? A popular treat in Indian cuisine, Cooking With Manali refers to this dessert as a "sweet fried dumpling." While that recipe features nuts, NDTV Food shares that there are various fillings can be used in the Indian dessert. In addition to the filling, guijyas are made with khoya, which can also be referred to as mawa. According to SpiceCravings, khoya is an "evaporated milk solid." That ingredient is common in Mithai, or sweets, like gujiyas. Some recipes deep fry the sweet dumpling in ghee and others bake the dessert. Both versions are finished by dipping the dessert in a sugar syrup which offers a crispy texture.

Gujiyas are often served during the Holi celebration as a token sweet treat given to friends and neighbors. According to Time, Holi is the Hindu celebration that dates back to the 4th century and it is often celebrated in March. As a moment to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, participants often douse themselves and others with colorful powders. Pictures of the annual celebration look like a kaleidoscope of colors. While the celebrations might have begun in Southeast Asian, the festivals can be found throughout the world. 

While the colorful pictures of the Holi celebration captivate people's attention, the vibrant food served is equally as enticing. Outlook Traveler suggests 10 different foods to try during holi. In addition to the gujiyas, several of the food recommendations steer toward the sweeter side. From fried dough to ball-shaped ladoos, the options are many. Also, several beverages, like lassi, a sweet yogurt based drink, are served. 

Although Times of India suggests that a Holi celebration isn't complete without good food, one interesting aspect seems to connect these Holi foods: many of the traditional options are handheld.  As seen in a recent Food Network Spring Baking Championship episode, the bakers were tasked with making handheld Holi inspired treats, with portability being a requirement. Given the joyous and sometimes boisterous nature of the Holi festivities, handheld treats might be convenient. Additionally, the sweetness from all the dessert-like food could help to keep the celebration going. As long as the colorful powder doesn't flavor that tasty dessert, everyone should be celebrating.