Besan laddoos are a timeless and incredibly popular Indian sweet. They are especially enjoyed during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions. Besides being delicious, these laddoos are also nutritious, as besan (gram flour) is a good source of protein. Making fresh, ghee-rich besan laddoos at home is not only easy but also provides a healthy sweet treat for your family.
Besan Laddoos: A Delicious and Healthy Combination
Besan, also known as gram flour or chickpea flour, is a staple in Indian cuisine. It's a good source of protein, vitamins, and fiber. Roasting besan in desi ghee (clarified butter) enhances its flavor. Cooking it with ghee imparts a unique aroma and richness that is captivating.
Besan laddoos are not only renowned as a sweet treat but are also considered health-promoting in Ayurveda. Consuming them strengthens the digestive system and provides energy. Especially during winter, besan laddoos offer warmth to the body.
Ingredients for Besan Laddoos
- Besan (Gram Flour) – 2 cups
- Ghee (Desi Ghee preferred) – 1/2 cup
- Powdered Sugar – 3/4 cup
- Cardamom Powder – 1/4 teaspoon
- Chopped Almonds and Pistachios – 2-3 tablespoons
- Silver Leaf (for garnishing) – as needed
Simple Method for Making Besan Laddoos
Roasting Besan and Ghee: First, add ghee to a thick-bottomed pan and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, add besan and roast continuously, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Roast the besan over low heat for about 25-30 minutes, until it turns light brown and fragrant. The besan should not taste raw.
Cooling the Mixture: Remove the roasted besan from the heat and transfer it to a large bowl. Allow it to cool completely. Cooling is essential because adding sugar to hot besan can cause it to melt, making it difficult to form laddoos.
Adding Sugar and Cardamom: Once the besan is completely cool, add powdered sugar and cardamom powder. Cardamom powder adds a captivating aroma, enhancing the laddoos' flavor. Mix everything well to ensure a uniform consistency.
Making the Laddoos: Now, take the mixture in your hands and roll it into small balls to form the laddoos. If the mixture seems dry, apply a little ghee to your hands to help shape the laddoos. The size and shape of the laddoos are entirely up to your preference.
Garnishing: Press chopped almonds and pistachios onto the besan laddoos. You can also add silver leaf for a festive touch and enhanced visual appeal.
Benefits of Eating Besan Laddoos
- Source of Energy: Both besan and ghee provide quick energy to the body.
- Aids Digestion: Besan contains fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system.
- Rich in Protein: Besan is packed with protein, which aids muscle development.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Besan contains good amounts of Vitamin B and iron.
Besan laddoos are not only the heart of Indian festivals and celebrations but are also incredibly easy to make at home. With this recipe, you can prepare delicious, nutritious, and fresh besan laddoos at home. Whether you need a sweet treat or something special for an occasion, besan laddoos will always meet your expectations.
