In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps of making Amla Murabba, share its health benefits, and give you some tips to enhance its taste.
Ingredients for Amla Murabba
To make Amla Murabba at home, you will need the following ingredients:
Amla (Indian Gooseberries): 1 kg
Sugar: 1.25 kg (or as per taste)
Water: 5-6 cups (to boil the amlas and make the syrup)
Saffron Strands (Optional): A pinch for added flavor and color
Cardamom Powder (Optional): 1 teaspoon for extra aroma
Cloves (Optional): 4-5 for an aromatic touch
Preparation Method
Step 1: Clean and Boil the Amlas
Begin by washing the amlas thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, prick each amla lightly with a fork or knife to allow the syrup to penetrate them later.
In a large pot, bring 5-6 cups of water to a boil. Add the amlas and cook them for about 8-10 minutes or until they become slightly tender. Be cautious not to overboil them, as you want them to retain their shape and firmness. After boiling, drain the water and set the amlas aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
In another large pan, combine 1.25 kg of sugar with 5 cups of water. Heat the mixture over medium flame and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, allow the syrup to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly. The sugar syrup should have a single-thread consistency when checked between your fingers.
Step 3: Soak Amlas in the Syrup
Add the boiled amlas to the prepared sugar syrup. Cook the amlas on a low flame for 20-25 minutes. You’ll notice that the amlas will start to absorb the syrup, becoming more translucent and glossy in appearance.
If you are using cloves, cardamom powder, or saffron strands, this is the time to add them to the syrup. The cloves add a slight spiciness, while the cardamom and saffron give the murabba a unique fragrance and color.
Step 4: Rest the Mixture
Once the amlas are fully cooked and soaked in the syrup, turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool. It’s essential to let the amlas rest in the syrup for at least 24 hours to absorb all the flavors.
Step 5: Cook Again for Better Preservation
After resting the amlas in the syrup for 24 hours, bring the mixture to a gentle boil again for about 10 minutes. This second boiling helps in better preservation of the murabba and ensures that the amlas soak up more syrup, making them soft and flavorful.
Step 6: Store the Amla Murabba
Once cooled, transfer the Amla Murabba into sterilized glass jars. Ensure that the amlas are fully submerged in the syrup to prevent spoilage. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dry place. Amla Murabba can last for several months when stored properly, allowing you to enjoy its benefits year-round.
Health Benefits of Amla Murabba
1. Boosts Immunity
Amla is packed with Vitamin C, which helps in boosting the immune system and protecting the body against infections. Regular consumption of Amla Murabba can help reduce the chances of common illnesses like colds and coughs.
2. Improves Digestion
Amla is known for its digestive properties. It stimulates the secretion of gastric juices and enzymes, which improves digestion and relieves symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and constipation. The sugar in the murabba also provides an instant source of energy.
3. Promotes Heart Health
Amla Murabba is rich in antioxidants that help in reducing cholesterol levels and improving heart health. It also helps in regulating blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart diseases.
4. Strengthens Hair and Skin
The high Vitamin C content in amla contributes to healthier skin and hair. Consuming Amla Murabba regularly can help strengthen hair follicles, prevent premature greying, and maintain a glowing complexion.
5. Detoxifies the Body
Amla acts as a natural detoxifier, helping in cleansing the liver, kidneys, and other vital organs. The antioxidants in amla help in eliminating harmful toxins from the body.
Tips to Enhance the Taste of Amla Murabba
Adding Flavors: Although the basic Amla Murabba recipe is delicious on its own, you can experiment by adding various flavors such as rose water, cinnamon, or nutmeg to give it a unique twist.
Adjusting the Sweetness: If you prefer your murabba to be less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Just ensure that the syrup is thick enough to preserve the amlas.
Serving Suggestions: Amla Murabba can be eaten on its own as a sweet dish, but it also pairs well with hot chapatis or parathas. You can also enjoy it with curd or yogurt for a tangy-sweet combination.
Softening Hard Amlas: If your amlas are too hard after boiling, you can steam them lightly before adding them to the sugar syrup. This helps in softening them without affecting their shape or taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use jaggery instead of sugar?
Yes, jaggery can be used as a healthier alternative to sugar in Amla Murabba. It will give the murabba a distinct earthy flavor, but the process remains the same.
2. How long does Amla Murabba last?
When stored properly in a cool, dry place, Amla Murabba can last up to 6 months. Refrigerating the murabba can further extend its shelf life.
3. Is Amla Murabba suitable for diabetics?
Since Amla Murabba is made with sugar syrup, it may not be ideal for diabetics. However, you can make a sugar-free version using natural sweeteners like stevia or sugar substitutes, although it might alter the taste.
Conclusion
Making Amla (Aanwala) Murabba at home is not only easy but also a great way to enjoy the numerous health benefits of amla throughout the year. With its rich flavor and syrupy texture, Amla Murabba is both a delicious dessert and a health-boosting preserve. Whether you’re looking to improve your immunity, digestion, or skin health, adding Amla Murabba to your daily diet can make a significant difference. So why not give it a try and make this traditional Indian delicacy at home?
Social Plugin