Neureos are traditional Goan sweet dumplings, a festive favourite during Christmas. Crispy on the outside and generously stuffed with coconut, nuts, and aromatic spices, they strike a perfect balance of texture and sweetness. This recipe walks you through roasting, stuffing, and shaping each dumpling, ensuring an authentic flavour that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer.
Lightly dry roast the fresh coconut in a non-stick pan on low heat until fragrant. Transfer to a bowl and let it cool completely. This step enhances the natural sweetness and aroma of the coconut.
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Roast Semolina
Dry roast the fine semolina in the same pan until it releases a nutty fragrance. Transfer it to a large bowl and allow it to cool completely before combining with the other ingredients.
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Roast Nuts & Spices
Roast almonds, cashews, and charoli until lightly golden. Add nutmeg powder and green cardamom powder. Mix well, then combine with the roasted semolina and allow it to cool completely.
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Mix Raisins & Coconut
Add both kinds of raisins and the cooled roasted coconut to the semolina-nut mixture. Sprinkle in powdered sugar and stir until well combined.
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Add Ghee
Pour in melted ghee and mix thoroughly so the stuffing binds slightly. This adds richness and helps the filling hold together during frying.
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Prepare Dough
In a large bowl, combine semolina with hot ghee and mix. Add refined flour, salt, and milk gradually. Knead into a semi-stiff dough. Cover with a damp muslin cloth and rest for 10–15 minutes to make rolling easier.
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Shape Neureos
Take a small dough portion and roll it into a disc on a greased surface. Place a spoonful of filling on one side. Brush edges with water, fold in half, and seal using fingers or a karanji cutter to create a patterned edge.
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Fry Neureos
Heat oil in a deep kadai on medium heat. Slide in a few neureos and fry until golden and crisp, flipping gently for even colour. Remove and drain on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
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Cool & Store
Allow Neureos to cool to room temperature before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to a week for convenient festive treats.