Boondi Ladoo Recipe: A Traditional Indian Delight

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Boondi

• Gram flour (Besan): 3 cups
• Water: 1¾ cups
• Baking powder: A generous pinch
• Food colors: Yellow, red, and green
• Chopped dry fruits: As desired
• Cardamom powder: ½ tsp
• Rose water: 1 tsp (optional)

For the Sugar Syrup

• Sugar: 3 cups
• Water: 1½ cups
• Saffron threads: A pinch (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sugar Syrup

1. Combine Sugar and Water: In a saucepan, mix 3 cups of sugar with 1½ cups of water. Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Add Saffron (Optional): For an aromatic touch, add a pinch of saffron threads to the syrup. Let it simmer until it reaches a one-string consistency.

Making the Boondi Batter

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of gram flour, a pinch of baking powder, and 1¾ cups of water. Stir until you achieve a smooth batter.
2. Divide and Color: Divide the batter into three portions. Add yellow food color to the largest portion, and red and green food colors to the smaller portions.

Frying the Boondi

1. Heat Oil/Ghee: In a deep kadhai (wok), heat ghee or oil for deep frying.
2. Check Batter Consistency: Test the batter by dropping a small amount into the hot oil. If it forms round balls, the consistency is perfect. Adjust with water or gram flour if needed.
3. Fry the Boondi: Using a perforated ladle, pour the batter into the hot oil. Fry until the boondis are golden and crisp. Remove and drain excess oil.

Combining Boondi with Sugar Syrup

1. Soak in Syrup: Transfer the fried boondis into the warm sugar syrup. Ensure they are well-coated.
2. Add Flavors: Mix in chopped dry fruits, cardamom powder, and rose water (if using).

Shaping the Ladoos

1. Form Ladoos: While the mixture is still warm, shape it into round ladoos using your hands.
2. Cool and Serve: Allow the ladoos to cool and set. Serve and enjoy with family and friends.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Cultural Significance: Boondi Ladoo is often offered to deities during Hindu rituals and is a staple during festivals like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi.
• Nutritional Value: Each Boondi Ladoo contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used.
• Historical Roots: The origin of Boondi Ladoo can be traced back to ancient India, where it was a favorite among royals and commoners alike.

Tips for Perfect Boondi Ladoo

• Consistency is Key: The batter should be of pouring consistency to form perfect round boondis.
• Temperature Control: Maintain medium heat while frying to ensure the boondis cook evenly.
• Clean Utensils: Clean the perforated ladle after each batch to prevent sticking and ensure uniform boondis.

For more detailed recipes and cultural insights, you can refer to NDTV Food and Sanjeev Kapoor.

By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious Boondi Ladoos that are sure to impress. Enjoy this traditional Indian sweet with your loved ones!