Besan Ladoo - A classic Indian dessert

'Almost teen' was telling me the other day that she read (or rather tried to read) some classics that have been re-written. And by re-written I don't mean abridged. It really saddened her (and me) that they had mish-mashed the story in a way that the feel of the old classic is lost. Some of her friends did like the new perspective or take to the story, but I think I share her opinion and feel a bit let down. I think I am a bit like that even with my cooking - there are some classic recipes that I will not want to refurbish. It's just not me. Besan Ladoo is definitely a classic for me...and here it is as it should be, simple and age old.

By the way, on a completely different note, 'almost teen' is going to be a teen soon... I can't be calling her 'almost teen' anymore - any recommendations?? Her friends recommend 'finally teen'... I like it - what do you guys think??



 1 cup besan/gram flour
1 cup caster sugar
1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
1/4 tsp nutmeg powder
1/8 tsp cardamom powder

handful of dried fruits of your choice finely cut and roasted in ghee.

On a low flame roast the besan, till it is richer in color and exudes a nice sweet aroma. This is THE most crucial part of the recipe. If you under roast then you will have a ladoo with a raw besan taste and  the flour will stick to your teeth. After you roast it should have a nice powdery consistency and not cling together. This is a easy 15-20 min process. Some people like to roast the besan in ghee...I like to add the warm ghee latter.

Warm the ghee and add it to the roasted besan, keep aside to cool.

After it is cool to touch, add the caster or superfine sugar and dry fruits, cardamom and nutmeg. With a light hand form small bite size balls....enjoy !!

I Love the change in seasons, change in the landscape, wardrobe and change in our palette. Our need for warm cappuccino hot chocolates replacing our urges for ice-creams and sundaes.  More than anything the rich landscape of color....sad that fall is such a short season...almost like a filler between summer and winter. Beautiful things come in small short spurts I guess. My yard is getting ready for fall too.....