The Tale of Two Sisters: Jalebi and Imarti

Desserts play a significant role in Indian cuisine, and who hasn’t relished the delightful sweetness of Jalebis and Imartis? While Jalebis are believed to have originated from Persia, Imartis hail from Northern India, introduced to us by the Mughals. Although they resemble in appearance, these two treats are distinct and ideal for every occasion.

Jalebi & Imarti I Source: Dribble.com

As the festive season approaches with Raksha Bandhan and Ganesh Chaturthi, and before we know it, Diwali will light up homes with the glow of diyas. Amidst all the traditions woven into these festivities, a common thread unites them**—**the delectable desserts. While a box of sweets may adorn our kitchen year-round, there is something uniquely captivating about Tyohaar wali mithai (Festive sweets). When we speak of festive sweets, Jalebis and Imartis emerge as our ultimate destinations. Though akin to twin sisters in appearance, they narrate distinctive tails of their own.

Indeed, Jalebi is the more familiar sister, recognised throughout the nation. Yet, Imarti embodies the sweet innocence that holds a cherished place in our hearts. Did you know that Imartis hold a more Indian origin compared to Jalebis? How, you ask? Imarti's roots are traced back to Northern India, a creation of the Mughals. Cooks at the behest of the Sultans fashioned this delicacy for special occasions, eventually becoming a royal item known as Raj Bhog, or the Royal food menu. Jalebis, in contrast, have their historical record in the 10th-century cookbook, Kitab al Tabeekh. In case haven't guessed yet, Persia is the birthplace of Zalebi/Zulbiya*,* now recognised as Jalebi in India. The Persians distributed these sweets to the less fortunate during Ramadan.

Jalebis found their way to India through trade and were wholeheartedly embraced by the subcontinent. Their popularity soared in the 15th century, turning into a luxurious treat gracing Maharaja’s bhojanshala (dining hall) and eventually every Indian household. On the other hand, Imartis found their way out of the Mughal kitchens to various other kingdoms that cherished them equally, making them a part of festival celebrations. During the British Raj, Imartis started being sold in sweet shops, and since then, making them during Diwali has become a tradition. 

Beyond their origins, the ingredients employed in crafting these desserts stand worlds apart. Jalebis are made with all-purpose flour, while Imartis are made from urad dal (Black lentil). Jalebis necessitate a fermentation period of ten to twelve hours, whereas Imartis require no such waiting and can be prepared as soon as the batter is ready. Jalebis present a crispy texture inside and out, whereas Imartis exhibit crispiness externally and a soft, gooey interior. Jalebis sport a spiral shape resembling a chakli, while Imartis sport a floral shape with a small ring in the centre.

Jalebis and Imartis are served during festivals I Source: Deccan Herald

During special occasions, these sweets are deep-fried in desi ghee (clarified butter), dipped in saffron-infused sugar syrup, and garnished with delicate pieces of pistachios and almonds. Given Jalebi's popularity, it's no surprise she has several companions across the country. Kesari Jalebi, Khowa Jalebi, Chhena Jalebi, and Mawa Jalebi are some of her equally irresistible accomplices. Accomplices? Indeed, these delicacies are hard to resist, despite the advice to exercise moderation. Imarti, however,  isn't alone in her journey. Her kindred spirit, Jangiri, enjoys fame in South India.

Speaking of companions, these sisters find perfect companionship with another dessert**—**Chilled Rabri. The mere thought of savouring a warm Jalebi/Imarti with a dollop of chilled rabri evokes sheer delight. But did you know that Jalebis are traditionally paired with fish in Afghanistan? In India, both these desserts are savoured on distinct occasions. Festivals aside, we indulge in these sweets following a spicy chaat or simply to satiate our cravings. So why wait? Grab your keys, head to your favourite sweet shop, and indulge in this sugary symphony of flavours.