Til Gud Ladoo (Sesame Peanut Jaggery Ladoo)

Til Gud Ladoo, a beloved traditional Indian sweet, is often associated with the festivals of Makar Sankranti, Lohri, and Pongal. These ladoos are made from sesame seeds (til), peanuts (moongfali), and jaggery (gud), combining health benefits with rich, nutty flavor. While they make for an excellent festive treat, they are also a fantastic snack year-round due to their energizing properties.

In this blog, we will walk you through the process of making these ladoos from scratch. With detailed instructions and the many benefits of each ingredient, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s dive in and explore the health benefits and the simple steps to make these delightful ladoos.

Health Benefits of Til Gud Ladoo:

Peanuts (Moongfali):
- High in Protein: Peanuts are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Packed with monounsaturated fats, peanuts support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: Peanuts are rich in antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress and free radicals, promoting overall well-being.
Sesame Seeds (Til):
- Rich in Calcium and Magnesium: Sesame seeds are known for their high content of calcium and magnesium, both essential for strong bones, muscle function, and better cardiovascular health.
- Boosts Immune System: The antioxidants present in sesame seeds strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.
- Promotes Skin and Hair Health: Sesame seeds contain healthy fats and vitamins that support skin health and hair growth.
Jaggery (Gud):
- Natural Sweetener: Jaggery is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, as it retains essential minerals such as iron, which is vital for maintaining healthy red blood cells.
- Aids Digestion: Consuming jaggery after meals can help in the smooth functioning of the digestive system by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.
- Detoxifies the Body: Jaggery acts as a natural detoxifier, purging harmful toxins from the body and improving overall metabolism.
- Boosts Immunity: Packed with antioxidants, jaggery helps in fighting free radicals and strengthens the immune system.
Ghee:
- Improves Digestion: Ghee aids in better digestion by facilitating the absorption of nutrients in the gut.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: While ghee adds richness to the ladoos, it is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Supports Brain Health: Ghee is rich in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that supports brain function and enhances memory.

Why You Should Try Til Gud Ladoo:

Nutrient-Packed Snack: These ladoos are rich in proteins, healthy fats, and essential minerals that provide long-lasting energy and help maintain vitality throughout the day.
Perfect for Winter Months: Til Gud Ladoo is often made during the winter months, particularly in the colder climates, because sesame seeds and jaggery generate warmth in the body. Consuming these ladoos helps in keeping the body warm and energized during chilly days.
Rich in Iron: The combination of jaggery and sesame seeds provides a natural source of iron, which is crucial for boosting energy levels and improving hemoglobin in the blood.

Traditional Festival Treat: These ladoos hold cultural significance, particularly during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Lohri. The act of exchanging these ladoos symbolizes goodwill, prosperity, and positive energy.
Easy and Quick to Make: Despite the richness and complexity of flavors, the preparation time for these ladoos is only about 25 minutes, making them a quick and easy treat for any occasion.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of sweetness or texture by adding more jaggery or by grinding the mixture to a finer or coarser consistency.

Recipe Details:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: Makes 15 ladoos
Calories per Ladoo: Approximately 120 calories

Ingredients:

1 cup peanuts (moongfali) – Roasted and peeled
2 cups sesame seeds (til) – Roasted
1.5 cups jaggery (gud) – Crushed
2 tablespoons ghee (optional) – For binding and added flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Roast the Peanuts

Start by adding 1 cup of peanuts to a pan. Roast them on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are aromatic and slightly smoky. Once roasted, allow the peanuts to cool before peeling off the skin for a smoother texture.
Benefit: Peanuts provide a rich source of protein, which is important for building and repairing body tissues.

Step 2: Roast the Sesame Seeds

Next, in the same pan, add 2 cups of sesame seeds and roast them until they turn light golden and begin to crackle. This process brings out the nutty flavor of the sesame seeds. Transfer the sesame seeds to a plate and allow them to cool.
Benefit: Sesame seeds are rich in calcium and magnesium, crucial for maintaining bone density and supporting overall health.

Step 3: Melt the Jaggery

Add a little water to a pan to create a double boiler effect. Place a bowl with 1.5 cups of crushed jaggery on top of the pan and warm it for about 5 minutes. This process will help the jaggery melt smoothly and easily blend with the other ingredients.
Benefit: Jaggery aids in digestion and provides a natural, healthier form of sweetness compared to refined sugars.

Step 4: Grind the Mixture

In a mixer jar, combine the roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and melted jaggery. Grind them coarsely to retain a crunchy texture. This step helps maintain the flavors of each ingredient while bringing everything together.
Benefit: This mixture provides a great balance of healthy fats, protein, and iron, offering a satisfying and nutritious snack.

Step 5: Mix and Warm

Transfer the ground mixture back to the pan and add 2-3 tablespoons of reserved roasted sesame seeds. Heat the mixture for 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is evenly blended and easy to bind.
Benefit: The added sesame seeds contribute to an extra layer of crunchiness and nutritional value.

Step 6: Shape the Ladoos

Rub a little ghee on your palms and shape the mixture into small ladoos by rolling it between your palms. If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, add a little more ghee for binding.
Benefit: Ghee not only enhances the flavor but also helps the ladoos hold their shape while providing additional health benefits.

Once shaped, allow the ladoos to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. These ladoos can be stored at room temperature for up to a week and enjoyed whenever you need an energy boost.

Tips for Perfect Til Gud Ladoo:

Even Roasting: Ensure both the peanuts and sesame seeds are roasted evenly to bring out the best flavor and aroma.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of jaggery according to your preference for sweetness. You can add more jaggery if you like your ladoos sweeter.
Use Fresh Jaggery: Always use fresh, good-quality jaggery for the best flavor and health benefits.
Substitute Ghee: If you want a dairy-free version, you can substitute ghee with coconut oil or skip it entirely for a lighter ladoo.
Store Properly: These ladoos can be stored for up to a week at room temperature. Refrigerating them will extend their shelf life by a few more days.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I substitute jaggery with sugar?
While you can substitute sugar for jaggery, the taste and nutritional value will change. Jaggery offers more minerals like iron and has a deeper, richer flavor compared to sugar.

2. Can I make these ladoos without ghee?
Yes, you can skip the ghee, but it helps in binding the ladoos and adds a rich flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute ghee with coconut oil.

3. Can I use unsalted peanuts?
Yes, unsalted peanuts are perfect for this recipe. Salted peanuts may alter the flavor and make the ladoos too savory.

4. How long can I store these ladoos?
These ladoos can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life by a few more days.

Conclusion:

Til Gud Ladoo is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition, offering the benefits of protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals in each bite. Whether for a festive celebration or an everyday snack, these ladoos are easy to make and packed with health-boosting ingredients. The combination of roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and jaggery not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also provides a range of health benefits—from boosting immunity to improving digestion.

This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a family favorite, providing a delicious and healthy alternative to processed sweets. So, grab the ingredients and try making these ladoos today!