Nutty Indian Besan Ladoo With Rich Toasted Flavor

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Besan ladoo are the chickpea flour sweets, and the whole point is roasting the flour until it smells nutty. I roast it slow so the raw taste disappears before the ghee goes in.

These laddoos are not only easy to make but also require minimal ingredients. Perfect for festive occasions or satisfying sweet cravings, this traditional treat brings warmth and a touch of Indian culinary heritage to your table.

Easy Indian Besan Ladoo Recipe

These Besan Ladoos are round, sweet confections that consist of roasted chickpea flour mixed with ghee and sugar, along with nuts for added texture. The preparation takes approximately 30 minutes and yields about 10-12 ladoos, ideal for sharing during celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups besan (chickpea flour)
1 cup jaggery or sugar, grated
1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
1/4 cup mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios), chopped
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
A few strands of saffron for garnishing (optional)

Instructions

Toast the Besan: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the besan and roast it until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 10-12 minutes), stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add Sweetness: Once roasted, add grated jaggery or sugar to the besan mixture and stir well to combine. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and forms a dough-like consistency.
Mix Nuts and Flavor: Stir in the chopped nuts, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly and remove the pan from heat.

Shape the Ladoos: Allow the mixture to cool slightly until you can handle it. Grease your hands with a little ghee, then take small portions of the mixture and roll them into golf-sized balls.
Garnish: Place the ladoos on a plate and garnish with saffron strands if desired. Allow them to cool completely before serving.