Sesame seeds are nutritious and offer various health benefits, being a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They contain vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin E. With their antioxidant properties, sesame seeds may help reduce oxidative stress and potentially prevent certain diseases (1). They can be enjoyed raw or toasted, sprinkled onto dishes, or used in the form of sesame seed oil or tahini in various recipes.
indian sesame treat – Til ladoo
This traditional Indian sesame treat that is popular in india during festive occasions is “Til Ladoo. These traditional sesame balls are not only easy to prepare but also provide a delectable and nutritious experience.
Crafted with utmost simplicity and a few key ingredients such as roasted sesame seeds and jaggery, these sweet treats captivate the senses. Additionally, the flavor profile can be further elevated with the inclusion of aromatic cardamom or crunchy nuts. These enticing balls of bliss provide a unique culinary delight that transcends the ordinary, making them a true highlight of any occasion.
Furthermore, because sesame seeds contain an abundance of critical minerals, these exquisite delights are marketed as a healthy alternative to other holiday sweets.
Recipe:
ingredients
- 1 cup white sesame seeds
- 1 cup jaggery or cane sugar
- 1/4 cup peanuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup Cashews (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Ground Nutmeg (optional)
- Vegan ghee for greasing
- Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Roasting The Seeds And Nuts
- Carefully roast the sesame seeds over gentle to medium heat for approximately 4-5 minutes until they become aromatic and undergo a slightly change in color. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Once roasted, transfer them to a plate and let them cool.
- Roast the peanuts in the same pan over medium to low heat, stirring continuously for 4-5 minutes. Continue until they become delightfully crunchy with appealing brown spots, ensuring a satisfying texture and enhanced flavor.
- After roasting the peanuts to a crunchy texture with brown spots, transfer them to a bowl and let them cool slightly. Remove the skins by gently rubbing between your palms, and then allow the peanuts to cool completely.
- Carefully roast the cashews over low-medium heat for a duration of 2-3 minutes, after roasting transfer them to a plate and let them cool completely.
Prepare the jaggery syrup
To create the syrup, place the jaggery or cane sugar along with a small amount of water into the same pan used for roasting. Heat the mixture over medium heat, allowing the jaggery or cane sugar to dissolve completely and form a thick syrup.Continuously stir the mixture and cook it until the jaggery syrup reaches the soft ball stage.
To check the syrup stage, drop a small amount of the jaggery solution into a bowl of water and observe its consistency. The desired result is a sticky syrup that can form a soft ball shape on its own. This method ensures the jaggery syrup has reached the ideal consistency for the Indian sesame treat, Til Ladoo.
Mix the ingredients
In a mixing bowl, gather the roasted sesame seeds, ground peanuts (if included in the recipe), and cardamom powder. Thoroughly combine the ingredients, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step guarantees a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in the final product. The careful mixing process ensures that each bite of the sweet treat offers a delightful balance of ingredients.
Form the ladoos
Slowly pour the warm jaggery syrup for your indian sesame treat into the mixture of sesame seeds which you have with the previous step while it is still hot. Mix the ingredients thoroughly using either a spoon or your hands. Let the mixture cool slightly until it reaches a comfortable temperature for handling. This step allows the flavors to meld together and facilitates the shaping process.
Shape the ladoos
To prevent sticking, apply a small amount of vegan ghee or coconut oil onto your palms. Take a small portion of the mixture and gently shape it into a ball using light pressure. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture, forming uniform balls. Greasing your palms aids in the smooth shaping of the mixture and ensures the desired consistency of the final product. For added appeal, consider garnishing the ladoos with chopped nuts like almonds or cashews.
Storing Suggestion
Store the indian sesame treat – Til Ladoo in an airtight container at room temperature for 8-10 days, ensuring it is not placed in a warm environment. If you wish to store them for a longer duration, refrigerate the Ladoo in an airtight container. For an even more extended shelf life, you have the option to freeze the Ladoo for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag. These storage methods will help maintain the freshness and quality of the Til Ladoo, allowing you to enjoy them over an extended period or for future celebrations.
The indian sesame treat – Til Ladoos you have prepared are now ready to be savored! These delightful treats can be enjoyed as a tasty snack or served as a traditional dessert, especially during festive occasions and special events. The combination of roasted sesame seeds, jaggery, and aromatic flavors creates a delectable experience that is sure to please your taste buds. Share these homemade Til Ladoos with family and friends, spreading joy and adding a touch of tradition to your celebrations.
