Besan Laddu is a traditional Indian sweet made with besan (gram flour), ghee, and sugar, often flavored with cardamom. It’s commonly prepared during festivals, auspicious occasions, or as a homemade snack for children due to its nutritional benefits.
It is popular across India, especially in North Indian households, and is offered during Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Navratri.
Ingredients
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- ⅓ to ½ cup ghee (clarified butter), as needed
- ½ to ¾ cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts like cashews or almonds (optional)
Preparation Method
1. Roasting the Besan
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai and add ghee.
- Add besan and roast on low flame, stirring continuously.
- Roast until the flour turns golden and releases a nutty aroma (takes 15–20 minutes).
- Make sure there are no lumps; the mixture should be smooth.
2. Cooling the Mixture
- Once roasted, transfer to a wide plate and let it cool completely to room temperature.
- This prevents sugar from melting when added.
3. Adding Sugar and Flavor
- Add powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a spoon until well combined.
4. Shaping the Laddus
- Take a small portion and roll into tight round balls (laddu shape) using palms.
- If mixture is too dry, warm a tablespoon of ghee and mix in small amounts.
Tips
- Low flame roasting is key – undercooked besan leads to raw taste.
- Do not add sugar while hot, or it will melt and make the mixture greasy.
- You can sieve besan before roasting for even roasting and smooth texture.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place.
Variations
- Til Besan Laddu – Add roasted sesame seeds for crunch and nutrition.
- Coconut Besan Laddu – Add ¼ cup desiccated coconut after roasting besan.
- Jaggery Besan Laddu – Replace sugar with powdered jaggery for a rustic taste.
- Besan Badam Laddu – Blend some almond powder with besan while roasting.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Protein
Besan (gram flour) is a good source of plant-based protein, which helps build muscles and repair body tissues. - Boosts Energy
The combination of ghee and sugar provides quick energy, making it ideal for kids and those recovering from illness. - Improves Digestion
Ghee supports digestion by lubricating the gut and aiding nutrient absorption. - Good Source of Healthy Fats
Homemade ghee contains essential fatty acids that support brain and heart health. - Nutrient-Rich Snack
Contains iron, folate, magnesium, and vitamin B6—beneficial for overall well-being. - Supports Weight Gain in Children
Ideal for underweight kids when consumed moderately due to its calorie density.