Gulab Jaman (Sweet Indian Fritters) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/3 cups granulated sugar
8 None cardamom pods, bruised
2 None cinnamon sticks
3 None star anise
1 tsp rosewater
1/2 cup self-rising flour, sifted
4 oz soft cheese
1/3 cup whole milk powder
6 None dried pitted dates, quartered
None None vegetable oil, for deep-frying

Preparation

Gently heat sugar, 2 cups water, cardamon, cinnamon and star anise over low heat, without stirring, until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil. Boil, without stirring, for 5 mins, until mixture is syrupy. Remove from heat then add rosewater. Let cool to room temperature.
Meanwhile, mix flour, cheese and milk powder until combined. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 mins, until smooth. Roll 1 tsp dough around each piece of date. Set aside.
Heat oil in a wok or large saucepan over medium heat. Working in batches, deep-fry balls for 2-3 mins, until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. Transfer to rosewater syrup and let stand for 1 hour before serving.