A step-by-step recipe for making Dry Fruit Laddoos, a delicious and nutritious Indian sweet:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios, raisins), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup seedless dates, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Fruits:
1.1 Finely chop the mixed dry fruits of your choice. You can use almonds, cashews, pistachios, and raisins.
2. Remove Seeds from Dates:
2.1 Remove the seeds from the dates and finely chop them.
3. Toast the Coconut:
3.1 In a dry pan, toast the desiccated coconut over low heat until it turns lightly golden and fragrant. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Dry Fruits:
4.1 In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of ghee.
4.2 Add the finely chopped dates and sauté them for a few minutes until they soften and become slightly caramelized.
5. Add Dry Fruits:
5.1 Add the finely chopped mixed dry fruits to the pan with the dates.
5.2 Sauté the dry fruits along with the dates for a few more minutes until they are well combined and aromatic.
6. Add Flavorings:
6.1 Add a pinch of saffron strands and cardamom powder to the mixture. Mix well to distribute the flavors.
7. Combine the Mixture:
7.1 Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
7.2 Once it's cool enough to handle, use your hands to combine the mixture thoroughly. The ghee will help bind everything together.
8. Shape into Laddoos:
8.1 Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a round laddoo shape. You can make them as big or small as you like.
9. Garnish (Optional):
9.1 If desired, you can garnish the laddoos with chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios. Press the chopped nuts gently onto the surface of the laddoo.
10. Let Them Set:
10.1 Place the dry fruit laddoos on a plate or tray and let them set at room temperature for a few hours. The ghee will solidify, making the laddoos firm.
11. Store:
11.1 Once the laddoos are set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for several days.
12. Enjoy:
12.1 Enjoy your homemade Dry Fruit Laddoos as a healthy and delicious sweet treat! They are perfect for festivals, special occasions, or as an energy-boosting snack.
These laddoos are not only tasty but also packed with the goodness of dry fruits and dates, making them a nutritious dessert option.