Are you craving a delightful Indian sweet treat but want to avoid the deep frying? Then you're in for a treat! This Churma Ladoo recipe is a healthier, equally delicious alternative to traditional fried ladoos. Made without any frying, these ladoos are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, from festivals to everyday indulgence. This easy recipe is ideal for homemade cooking, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas or healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Pinch of saffron strands (optional, for color and flavor)
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews) – optional, for added richness and texture.
Instructions:
Step 1: Roasting the Flour
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Add the whole wheat flour and roast it, stirring continuously, until it turns light golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This process takes about 10-12 minutes. Be patient and ensure even roasting to avoid burning.
Step 2: Incorporating Ghee
- Once the flour is roasted, remove the pan from the heat.
- Gradually add the ghee to the roasted flour, mixing well until the flour is completely saturated and fluffy. This creates the churma base, a key element in this delicious dish.
Step 3: Adding Flavor & Moisture
- Add the powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands (if using) to the churma mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Slowly add the milk, mixing continuously until the mixture comes together to form a slightly crumbly dough. Don't add too much milk at once; you want a dough that's pliable but not overly wet.
Step 4: Shaping the Ladoos
- Lightly grease your palms with ghee to prevent sticking.
- Take small portions of the churma mixture and roll them into small, round ladoos. You can adjust the size according to your preference.
- If using, press a few chopped nuts into the top of each ladoo for an elegant finish.
Tips for Perfect Churma Ladoos:
- Roasting the flour: This is a crucial step. Ensure the flour is roasted evenly to avoid a raw taste and ensure a nice nutty flavor.
- Ghee quantity: The amount of ghee can be adjusted slightly depending on the flour used. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more ghee.
- Storage: Store the ladoos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well.
Variations:
- Dry Fruits: Add chopped dry fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a different taste profile.
- Jaggery: Replace powdered sugar with jaggery for a healthier, less refined sugar option.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Ladoo – serving size will vary based on size):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories (depending on size and added ingredients)
- Fat: 5-7 grams (mostly from ghee)
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
These delicious Churma Ladoos are a fantastic example of how you can enjoy traditional Indian sweets in a healthier way. Enjoy these simple, quick, and healthy homemade treats! They are a great addition to your collection of best recipes and are perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings. Give this recipe a try and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!