Black Gram Laddu

Are you looking for a delicious and unique Indian sweet recipe? Look no further than the Black Gram Laddu! This traditional sweet is made from black gram split and skinned, peanuts, fried gram, green cardamoms, jaggery, and ghee, giving it a rich and nutty flavor. Follow the simple instructions below to create this delectable treat that is perfect for any occasion. Let's get started!

In India, Laddu is one of the most famous dessert recipes during festival times! Known for it’s amazing flavors and taste, these Laddus are the best dessert option for everyone! This black gram laddu is a healthy alternative snack for everyone from kids to adults. Black urad dal is one of the richest sources of proteins and vitamin B, and is also beneficial for women and kids especially during puberty and menopause.

This simple lentil laddu is full of iron, folic acid, calcium, magnesium and potassium, which makes this a perfect health package for pregnant women and It is also a good home remedy for back pain! Other than its health benefits, black gram laddu is also known to please everyone’s taste palettes. It is easy to prepare and can be eaten as a snack also. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try it right now!

What Is Black Gram Laddu?

• Black Gram Laddu, also known as Karuppu Ulundhu Laddu, is a traditional Indian sweet that is made from black gram split and skinned, peanuts, fried gram, green cardamoms, powdered jaggery, ghee, and chopped cashews. This delectable treat combines the rich flavors of the main ingredients with the aromatic essence of Indian spices, creating a unique and irresistible dessert.
• The combination of the roasted black gram, peanuts, and fried gram, along with the earthy sweetness of jaggery and the fragrant cardamoms, results in a laddu that is not only flavorful but also rich in nutrients. The addition of ghee and crunchy cashews adds a delightful texture to the laddu, making it a truly satisfying sweet indulgence.
• This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian sweets, showcasing the use of wholesome ingredients and unique seasoning to create a succulent and irresistible dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a festive treat or as a sweet snack, Black Gram Laddu is a delightful and wholesome indulgence that is sure to please the palate.

Why You'll Love Black Gram Laddu?

• Amazing Texture: The black gram laddu has a unique and delightful texture, thanks to the combination of roasted black gram, peanuts, and fried gram. The crispy and crunchy texture of the nuts and the slightly coarse mixture make these laddus a delightful treat.
• Healthy Ingredients: Black gram is a rich source of protein, fiber, and various nutrients. Peanuts add a dose of healthy fats and protein, while jaggery provides essential minerals. The addition of ghee and cashews also adds a nutritious element to these laddus, making them a wholesome and guilt-free indulgence.
• Energy Booster: Black gram is known to be an excellent source of energy and can help in replenishing lost nutrients. This makes black gram laddus a perfect snack for boosting energy levels, especially during busy days or post-workout.
• Digestive Benefits: The combination of black gram, peanuts, and jaggery in these laddus can aid in digestion. They are known to have digestive properties and can be a healthier alternative to store-bought sweets.

-Traditional Delicacy: Black gram laddus are a traditional Indian sweet that is not only delicious but also a part of cultural celebrations. Enjoying these laddus can bring a sense of nostalgia and connect you to the rich culinary heritage of India.

• Long Shelf Life: These laddus have a long shelf life and can be stored for up to 5 days at room temperature. This makes them a convenient and readily available sweet treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Ingredients for Black Gram Laddu

• Black Gram Split and Skinned (Karuppu Ulundhu/Black Urad Dal): This ingredient adds a nutty flavor and a slightly earthy taste to the laddu, as well as a nice texture.
• Peanuts: Peanuts bring a crunchy texture and a rich, toasty flavor to the laddu, complementing the other ingredients well.
• Fried Gram (Pottukadalai): Fried gram adds a delicious, roasted flavor and a slightly grainy texture to the laddu, enhancing its overall taste.
• Green Cardamoms: Green cardamom brings a floral and spicy aroma to the laddu, giving it a delightful fragrance and flavor.
• Powdered Jaggery: Jaggery adds a natural sweetness and a rich caramel flavor to the laddu, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
• Ghee: Ghee contributes a buttery and nutty flavor to the laddu, as well as a smooth and creamy texture that helps bind the ingredients together.

How To Make Black Gram Laddu?

To make delicious black gram laddu, follow these simple steps:

• Begin by dry roasting the black gram/urad dal until it becomes golden brown and gives off a nice aroma. This step is important for enhancing the flavor of the laddu.
• Next, dry roast the peanuts until they become crisp and then set them aside.
• Similarly, dry roast the fried grams and green cardamoms for a few seconds and allow them to cool down completely.
• Grind the roasted ingredients in a mixie jar until you get a fine powder, then add the powdered jaggery and blend until fully incorporated. The mixture should be slightly coarse.
• In a separate pan, heat ghee and fry the chopped cashews until they turn golden brown. Add the ghee and fried cashews to the dal mixture and mix well.
• Finally, shape the mixture into small lemon-sized portions and form them into laddus. This step is crucial for the traditional round shape of the laddu.
• Store the laddus in an airtight container and they will keep well for at least 5 days at room temperature.

By following these steps, you can create flavorful and aromatic black gram laddu to enjoy as a delicious sweet treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Tea or Coffee: Black gram laddu goes great with a hot cup of tea or coffee as a sweet treat. The combination of the slightly nutty and sweet laddu with the warmth of the beverage is perfect for a snack.
• Serve with Fresh Fruits: Pair the laddu with some fresh fruits such as sliced bananas or juicy mangoes for a refreshing and light dessert option.
• Enjoy with Yogurt: For a creamy and tangy contrast, serve the laddu with a side of plain yogurt. The combination of the sweet laddu and the slightly sour yogurt makes for a delicious contrast in flavors.
• Add to a Platter of Indian Sweets: Serve the black gram laddu as a part of a platter of different Indian sweets to offer variety and options for your guests or family members.
• Accompany with Savory Snacks: Pair the laddu with some savory snacks such as samosas or pakoras for a balanced and satisfying snack or dessert option.
• Include with Festive Meals: During festive occasions or celebrations, serve the black gram laddu as a sweet treat to enjoy with other festive meals and dishes.

Tips for Making Black Gram Laddu

Preparation Duration: 30 minutes

• Dry roasting the black gram and peanuts may take around 10-15 minutes. Grinding the mixture and shaping the laddus will take another 10-15 minutes. Plan accordingly to save time.

Importance of Garnishing:

• Adding fried cashews not only adds a crunch to the laddus but also enhances the visual appeal. The golden brown cashews on top of the laddus make them look inviting and delicious.

Cooking Techniques:

• Ensure that the black gram and peanuts are dry roasted on low to medium heat to prevent burning. Grinding the mixture to a fine powder is crucial for a smooth texture in the laddus.

Storage:

• Store the laddus in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Flavor Enhancement:

• For a unique flavor, consider adding a pinch of cardamom powder or a dash of nutmeg while grinding the mixture.

Variations:

• Experiment with the recipe by adding grated coconut or raisins for a different twist on the traditional black gram laddus.

Variations for Black Gram Laddu

• Nut Variations: Instead of peanuts, try using almonds, cashews, or pistachios for a different nutty flavor and texture in your laddu.
• Sweetener Substitutions: Experiment with different sweeteners such as sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup for a unique twist on the traditional jaggery.
• Spice it Up: Add a hint of spice by incorporating ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the laddu mixture for a warm and aromatic flavor.
• Coconut Addition: For a tropical touch, mix in some desiccated coconut for a hint of sweetness and a chewy texture.
• Chocolate Black Gram Laddu: For a decadent treat, mix in some cocoa powder and mini chocolate chips to create a chocolatey version of the black gram laddu.
• Fruity Twist: Add dried fruits such as raisins, dates, or apricots for a burst of natural sweetness and a chewy texture in your laddu.

How to Store Black Gram Laddu

• Proper storage is key: Storing black gram laddu in an airtight container is essential to maintain its freshness and extend its shelf life.
• Keep it at room temperature: Store the laddu at room temperature in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming too moist or soggy.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Keep the laddu away from direct sunlight as exposure to light can alter the texture and taste of the laddu.
• Use a dry spoon: When serving the laddu, always use a dry spoon to avoid any moisture from getting into the container and affecting the freshness of the laddu.
• Check for freshness: Periodically check the laddu for any signs of spoilage or change in texture. If the laddu appear to be losing their freshness, consider transferring them to the refrigerator.
• Refrigerate if necessary: If you live in a particularly humid climate, or if you notice the laddu starting to lose their freshness, consider storing them in the refrigerator to prolong their shelf life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use whole black gram instead of split and skinned black gram?

• Yes, you can use whole black gram, but the texture and taste of the laddu may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to add peanuts to the laddu?

• Peanuts add a delicious nutty flavor to the laddu, but you can omit them if you have allergies or prefer not to use peanuts.

Can I substitute jaggery with sugar?

• Jaggery adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the laddu, but you can use sugar as a substitute. Keep in mind that the taste and color of the laddu will be different.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the laddu?

• You can adjust the amount of jaggery or sugar to your preferred level of sweetness. Add more or less according to your taste.

Can I store the laddu in the refrigerator?

• Yes, you can store the laddu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I use any other nuts instead of cashews?

• Yes, you can use almonds, pistachios, or any other nuts of your choice instead of cashews for added flavor and texture.

Recipe Card

Black Gram Laddu 2020-07-16 05:11:05

Black Gram Laddu

Serving Size: 10-12 laddus

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Black Gram Split and Skinned / Karuppu Ulundhu / Black Urad Dal
• 1/4 cup Peanuts
• 1/4 cup Fried Gram / Pottukadalai
• 4 to 5 Green Cardamoms
• 3/4 cup Powdered Jaggery
• 3 tbsp Ghee
• One handful Chopped Cashews

Instructions:

• Dry roast black gram/urad dal on low to medium heat until you get a nice aroma and the dal becomes golden brown. Remove from the heat and keep it aside.
• Then add peanuts and fry until crisp and remove from the heat and keep it aside.
• Then add fried grams and cardamoms and fry for few seconds.
• Cool down completely.
• Then add to a mixie jar and grind until you get a fine powder.
• Now add powdered jaggery and give a quick blend or until fully incorporated.
• Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. The mixture will be slightly coarse.
• Meanwhile, heat a pan with ghee.
• When the ghee heats, add chopped cashews and fry until golden brown.
• Add the ghee and the fried cashews to the dal mixture. Mix well with a spoon.
• Pinch a small lemon sized portion and shape them as ladoos. Repeat to finish the mixture.
• Store in an air-tight container. Store well for at least 5 days at room temperature.