| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 25g | 15g | 50g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 35g | 3g | 7g | 0.25g |
With the first bite of Chironji and Coconut Laddoos you are transported to another world – a world filled with the spirit of vibrant Indian flavor profiles coupled with a dash of Creole richness and French elegance that I adore. It’s a sweet, aromatic, and slightly nutty dessert, unique in its character and absolutely memorable, almost like a far-eastern cousin of New Orleans beignets.
Crafted with wholesome ingredients like Chironji seeds, grated coconut, cardamom, and ghee, this luscious dessert doesn’t just taste incredible but brings along a host of health benefits. Chironji, an indigenous Indian nut, is known for its cooling properties and as a prime source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
The Magic of Chironji
Chironji seeds are known to have an antioxidant-rich profile that is believed to be an excellent boost for your immune system. They are packed with Vitamin C, helping to rejuvenate your skin and providing a youthful glow. Further enhanced with the addition of coconut – a powerhouse of nutrients that support digestion and heart health, these laddoos serve to be a guilt-free indulgence in your dessert time.
Beyond Boundaries
The harmonious blend of these flavors makes Chironji and Coconut Laddoos similar yet refreshingly different from some South Asian and Hawaiian confections featuring coconut, like coconut macaroons or Khao Tom Mad. Drizzled with a cardamom-infused sugar syrup, the laddoos present a stunning dessert experience that brings together the richness of traditional Indian flavors and the sophistication of French desserts, something I’m particularly passionate about.
This Indian delight also pairs effectively with other flavors. I personally love to have them with a cup of steaming masala chai during winter afternoons. Or even as a sweet ending to a feast of rich curries enjoyed in the company of friends and family.
I can’t help but be in awe of the humble, yet powerful Chironji and Coconut Laddoos. A dessert that not only satiates your sweet cravings but also takes care of your well-being. After all, who says you can’t have your laddoo and eat it too?
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of Chironji
- 1 and 1/2 cups of Grated Coconut
- 1 cup of Sugar
- 4 tablespoons of Ghee (Clarified Butter)
- 1/2 cup of Milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of Cardamom Powder
- 6 Almonds, for garnishing
- 6 Cashews, for garnishing
- 6 Raisins, for garnishing
Method
Step One
First, dry roast the Chironji in a pan on medium heat until they turn a light brown. Be careful to not let them burn. Once roasted, set them aside to cool.
Step Two
In the same pan, add ghee and the grated coconut. Roast them on low to medium heat till the coconut turns a bit brown. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Step Three
Once the coconut is slightly brown, add sugar to the pan and mix well. Cook until the sugar melts completely, continually stirring.
Step Four
After the sugar has melted, pour in milk and stir well. Cook this mixture for a few more minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
Step Five
Add the roasted Chironji and cardamom powder to the mixture and mix well. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down to a temperature that is comfortable to touch.
Step Six
Start making small balls (laddoos) from the mixture. If required, you can grease your palms with a little ghee to prevent sticking.
Step Seven
Garnish each laddoo with an almond, cashew, and raisin before the mixture completely cools down and tightens. The laddoos are ready to be served once they have cooled down completely.
