Are you looking for a delicious and traditional Gujarati sweet to impress your family and friends? Look no further! Churma Ladoo, a delightful blend of roasted wheat flour and ghee, is the perfect treat for any celebration or a simple afternoon indulgence. This recipe will guide you through making these melt-in-your-mouth ladoos from scratch, ensuring a successful and delightful homemade cooking experience. It's easier than you think, and the result is incredibly rewarding! This is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for quick dinner ideas or special occasions.
Ingredients for Churma Ladoo (makes approximately 20 ladoos)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios – your choice!)
- 1 tablespoon desiccated coconut (optional, for added flavor and texture)
- A pinch of cardamom powder (elaichi powder)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Roasting the Flour
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the whole wheat flour and roast it continuously, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and a nutty aroma fills your kitchen. This process takes about 10-15 minutes, so be patient and keep stirring to prevent burning. This is a crucial step for achieving the perfect texture of your churma.
Step 2: Adding Ghee
Once the flour is roasted, add the ghee to the pan. Mix it well with the roasted flour, ensuring every part is coated with ghee. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes fragrant and slightly crumbly.
Step 3: Incorporating Sweetness and Flavor
Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Add the sugar, chopped nuts, desiccated coconut (if using), and cardamom powder. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Step 4: Shaping the Ladoos
Once the mixture has cooled down enough to handle, start shaping it into small ladoos. You can grease your hands with a little ghee to prevent the mixture from sticking. Roll the mixture into small balls, ensuring they are evenly shaped.
Step 5: Serving and Storage
Arrange the finished Churma Ladoo on a plate or serving dish. These delicious ladoos can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Churma Ladoo:
- Roasting the flour: This is the most critical step. Don't rush it! Low and slow roasting ensures the flour is cooked evenly and develops a rich flavor.
- Ghee quality: Use good quality ghee for the best flavor and aroma.
- Sugar adjustment: Adjust the sugar quantity based on your preference. Some people prefer them less sweet.
- Nut variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or even dried fruits like raisins.
Variations:
- Dry Fruit Churma Ladoo: Add other dry fruits like raisins, cranberries or chopped dates for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spiced Churma Ladoo: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg powder for a warm and spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per Ladoo - approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Fat: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
These delicious and easy-to-make Churma Ladoo are a delightful addition to any occasion. Enjoy this healthy and tasty treat! They're a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. Making them is a rewarding experience, bringing the joy of homemade cooking to your kitchen.