Jalebi is a crispy, pretzel-shaped Indian sweet made from fermented batter and soaked in saffron sugar syrup. This iconic street dessert is a family favorite at breakfast stalls and festive occasions.
In a large bowl, combine 1.5 cups all-purpose flour and 2 tbsp cornstarch. Add 3 tbsp yogurt and 0.5 tsp active dry yeast, then mix with 0.75 cup water until smooth. Cover with a cloth and let ferment in a warm area for 8-12 hours (overnight) until bubbly and slightly risen.
To prepare the sugar syrup, combine 1.5 cups sugar and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the syrup is slightly thick but not thread-like. Stir in 0.25 tsp saffron strands, 0.25 tsp cardamom powder, and 0.5 tsp lemon juice to prevent crystallization. Keep the syrup warm (not boiling) while frying the jalebis.
Heat 2 cups canola oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat (oil temperature: about 350°F). Pour the fermented batter into a squeeze bottle or piping bag with a small round tip.
Squeeze the batter into hot oil forming spiral or pretzel shapes, working quickly and carefully. Fry the jalebis until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes per side, adjusting the heat to prevent burning but ensure crispness.
Using tongs, remove the jalebis from the oil and immediately immerse them in the warm saffron syrup for 40–60 seconds so they soak evenly. Remove and let excess syrup drip off on a wire rack. Serve warm for best texture.