Health
Besan Ladoo is a beloved traditional Indian sweet made from chickpea flour (besan), ghee, and sugar. However, in today’s health-conscious world, many people are looking for ways to enjoy their favorite treats without the added sugar. If you’re craving the rich, nutty flavor of Besan Ladoo but want a healthier alternative, this sugar-free version is perfect for you. It’s equally delicious, nutritious, and allows you to indulge without the guilt.
Ingredients for Sugar-Free Besan Ladoo
To make these delightful sugar-free Besan Ladoos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of besan (chickpea flour)
- 1/4 cup of ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup of sweetener (stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol, depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios)
- 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- A pinch of salt (optional, enhances the flavor)
Instructions to Make Sugar-Free Besan Ladoo
- Roasting the Besan:
Begin by heating a heavy-bottomed pan on low-medium heat. Add the besan and dry roast it gently. Stir constantly to avoid burning, as besan tends to burn quickly. Roasting it will enhance the nutty aroma and flavor, which is the hallmark of a well-made Besan Ladoo. Keep roasting for about 8-10 minutes, until the besan turns golden and you can smell a rich, roasted aroma. This step is crucial for the perfect taste. - Adding Ghee:
Once the besan is roasted, add the ghee to the pan. Stir well so that the ghee mixes evenly with the besan. Continue to cook on low heat for another 5-6 minutes. The ghee helps bind the ladoo and also adds a rich flavor, so make sure the besan absorbs the ghee properly. - Sweetening the Mixture:
Now, it’s time to add the sugar substitute. You can use stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol, depending on your dietary preferences. Add the sweetener and stir the mixture thoroughly to combine it with the besan and ghee. If you’re using a liquid sweetener, adjust the amount of milk slightly to balance the consistency. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved and evenly mixed. - Flavoring with Cardamom and Nuts:
Add the cardamom powder to the besan mixture for a lovely aromatic flavor. If you’re using saffron, soak the strands in warm milk for a few minutes and then add them to the mixture. Next, add the chopped nuts—this is optional, but it adds crunch and texture to your ladoos. Cashews and almonds are commonly used, but feel free to experiment with other nuts like pistachios or walnuts. - Forming the Ladoos:
Allow the mixture to cool down a bit, but not completely. Once it is cool enough to handle (but still warm), grease your hands with a little ghee and start shaping the mixture into small round ladoos. You can make them as big or as small as you prefer. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more milk, but it should be firm enough to hold its shape. - Letting the Ladoos Set:
After forming the ladoos, let them cool completely at room temperature. They will firm up as they cool and become the perfect sweet treat.
Tips for a Perfect Sugar-Free Besan Ladoo
- Consistency is Key: If the ladoo mixture is too runny, add a little more besan to thicken it up. If it’s too dry, a splash of milk can help bring it together.
- Adjust Sweetness: Since different sweeteners vary in sweetness, make sure to adjust the quantity according to your taste.
- Roast Well: Ensure that the besan is roasted properly to avoid a raw taste. It should be golden and aromatic before adding ghee.
Health Benefits of Sugar-Free Besan Ladoo
- High in Protein: Besan (chickpea flour) is rich in protein, making these ladoos a great source of energy.
- Good Fats: Ghee is a healthy fat, and it can help improve digestion and boost immunity when consumed in moderation.
- Low Glycemic Index: Using sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol ensures that the ladoos have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people with diabetes or those watching their sugar intake.
This sugar free Besan Ladoo recipe is a healthier alternative to the traditional version but still retains all the rich, aromatic flavors. It’s perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat without the sugar rush. Whether for a festive occasion or just a special snack, these ladoos are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals.
Enjoy the sweetness of tradition, without the guilt!
