Makhana ladoo is a delightful winter treat that is both nutritious and comforting.
Made with a combination of makhana (lotus seeds), edible gum (gond), and other wholesome ingredients, these ladoos are loaded with natural-fat, fiber, and protein, making them perfect for the colder months when your body needs extra warmth and nourishment.
Dear Lykkers, with no flour or refined sugar, this recipe ensures a healthy option for those looking for a nutritious snack or treat.
The Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
Makhana ladoos are packed with ingredients that provide multiple health benefits, making them an excellent choice for a winter snack.
Edible Gum (Gond)
Edible gum is considered a warming food, which is why it is often consumed during winter months to help generate heat in the body. Research suggests that it may also help strengthen bones, making it an excellent addition during pregnancy and lactation. It is also known for its ability to support joint health and help relieve back pain.
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Dates
Dates are a powerhouse of fiber and antioxidants. Consuming them regularly supports brain health, aids digestion, and may help in disease prevention. They provide natural sweetness without the need for refined sugars, making them a healthier option.
Nuts
Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are rich in healthy-fats, fiber, and protein. They also contain antioxidants that may reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and be beneficial for managing Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a great source of healthy-fats, protein, B vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. These seeds help maintain heart health, lower cholesterol, and reduce inflammation, making them a must-have in your winter diet.
Lotus Seeds (Makhana)
Lotus seeds are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. They have anti-inflammatory properties, can lower blood sugar levels, and may help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Ghee
Though ghee is rich in-fat, it contains beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health and improve cardiovascular function. Studies show that consuming ghee as part of a balanced diet can help reduce unhealthy cholesterol levels, making it an ideal addition to this ladoo.
Ingredients for Makhana Ladoo
2 cups makhana (lotus seeds)
1/4 cup sesame seeds
15-20 almonds
¼ cup walnuts
1 cup chopped dates
1/4 cup edible gum (gond)
4-5 tbsp melted ghee or coconut oil
Small pinch of cardamom powder
Preparation of Makhana Ladoo
Step 1: Roasting Sesame Seeds
Begin by dry roasting the sesame seeds on low to medium heat until they slightly change color and become crunchy. Once roasted, remove them from the pan and set aside in a small bowl.
Step 2: Roasting Nuts
In the same pan, dry roast the almonds and walnuts on medium heat until they turn slightly brown. Once done, remove them from the pan and mix them with the roasted sesame seeds.
Step 3: Roasting Makhana
Now, dry roast the makhana (lotus seeds) on low to medium heat until they become slightly brown. Once roasted, transfer them to a separate bowl and allow them to cool down.
Step 4: Frying Edible Gum (Gond)
Add 2 tbsp of ghee to the same pan. Once the ghee is slightly hot, lower the heat and add the edible gum (gond). Fry it until it puffs up and turns white. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Once completely fried, remove it from the pan and place it in a large mixing bowl. After it cools down a little, crush it with a flat surface.
Step 5: Softening Dates
In the same pan, sauté the chopped dates with a teaspoon of oil for 1 minute to soften them. Turn off the heat once done.
Step 6: Grinding Makhana
Using a mixer grinder, grind the roasted makhana into a fine powder. Add this powder to the bowl containing the crushed edible gum (gond), and mix well.
Step 7: Grinding Nuts and Dates
Next, grind the roasted sesame seeds, almonds, and walnuts together in the mixer grinder until they form a slightly buttery consistency. Add the softened dates and continue grinding until the mixture turns into a thick paste.
Step 8: Combining the Mixtures
Add the nuts and dates paste to the makhana and gond mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly. Add a small pinch of cardamom powder for flavor. If the mixture doesn’t bind well, you can add 2 tbsp of hot ghee to help it come together. Mix everything with clean hands to ensure the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shaping and Storing the Ladoo
Step 9: Shaping the Ladoo
Once the mixture is ready, begin shaping it into small ladoos. Store these ladoos in a clean, airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh but will stay good for at least 2 weeks.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Healthy Ladoo
These ladoos are incredibly addictive, so it's best to enjoy one small ladoo each day. The combination of flavors and textures, with a slight crunch from the gond and the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the ghee and nuts, makes this ladoo a delightful treat.
Makhana ladoos are perfect for the winter months when your body requires extra warmth. Packed with protein, fiber, and numerous health benefits, they make a great snack for children, older-adults, and even new mothers recovering from childbirth. They can also be taken while traveling, especially to cold regions, ensuring you stay nourished and energized. For the men in your family, consider using special gond (katira or bawal no gundar) for added benefits.
