Classic Besan Ladoo: A Melt-in-the-Mouth Festive Sweet

Besan ladoo is a festive favourite in homes across India. It needs only a few ingredients, but patience during roasting is what gives it the nutty aroma and soft texture.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Makes: about 14 ladoos

Ingredients

• 2 cups (about 200 g) besan (gram flour), preferably coarse
• 1/2 cup (about 110 g) ghee, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons extra if needed
• 3/4 cup (about 90 g) powdered sugar, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds or cashews
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)

Method

• Melt the ghee in a heavy-bottomed kadhai on low heat.
• Add the besan and stir well so there are no dry lumps.
• Roast on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture will first look thick, then loosen and become glossy.
• The besan is ready when it turns golden brown and smells nutty. If it looks dry, add another tablespoon of ghee.
• Add the chopped nuts and roast for one more minute.
• Turn off the heat and transfer the mixture to a plate. Let it cool until it is warm, not hot. If you add sugar while the mixture is hot, it melts and the ladoos turn sticky.
• Add powdered sugar and cardamom powder. Mix with your hands until evenly combined.
• Take about two tablespoons of the mixture and press firmly into a round ladoo. Repeat with the rest.
• Press a few pistachio pieces on top, if using.

Tips for success

• Do not rush the roast on high heat; the outside burns while the inside stays raw.
• Coarse besan gives a slightly grainy, traditional texture. Fine besan gives smoother ladoos.
• If the mixture is too dry to bind, warm a spoon of ghee and mix it in.

Storage and food safety

Cool the ladoos completely before storing. Keep them in a clean, dry, airtight container at room temperature and use within about two weeks, or refrigerate in hot and humid weather. Use clean hands and dry utensils, buy ghee and besan from licensed sellers, and check labels for the FSSAI licence number. More food-safety tips are available on the FSSAI's Eat Right India portal.

Ladoos are rich in fat and sugar, so enjoy them as a festive treat in moderate portions.