Makar Sankranti, the festival of kites and harvest, is synonymous with joyous gatherings and delectable sweets. One such traditional treat that holds a special place during this festival is Til Gul Laddoo. These sweet delights, made with sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gul), not only tantalize the taste buds but also carry cultural significance. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create these delicious Til Gul Laddoos at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sesame seeds (white or black)
- 1 cup jaggery, grated
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts for garnish (almonds, cashews, or pistachios)
Instructions:
1. Roasting Sesame Seeds:
- In a dry pan, roast sesame seeds on medium heat until they turn golden brown. Stir continuously to ensure even roasting.
- Once roasted, set aside and let them cool.
2. Preparing Jaggery Syrup:
- In a separate pan, add grated jaggery and a tablespoon of water.
- Heat on low flame until the jaggery melts and forms a syrup. Ensure it reaches a soft ball consistency.
- Strain the syrup to remove impurities.
3. Combining Sesame Seeds and Jaggery:
- Add the roasted sesame seeds to the jaggery syrup.
- Mix well, ensuring that the sesame seeds are evenly coated with the jaggery syrup.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Also Read: Makar Sankranti: Embracing the Harvest Festival
4. Shaping Laddoos:
- Grease your palms with ghee to prevent sticking.
- Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a round laddoo. Repeat for the remaining mixture.
5. Garnishing:
- In a small pan, heat ghee and lightly roast desiccated coconut until it turns golden brown (optional).
- Mix cardamom powder and the roasted coconut with the laddoos for added flavor.
- Garnish each laddoo with chopped nuts.
6. Let Them Set:
- Allow the Til Gul Laddoos to cool and set for a few hours.
Now, your homemade Til Gul Laddoos are ready to be shared and savored during the festive celebrations of Makar Sankranti. The aromatic blend of sesame seeds, jaggery, and cardamom creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of this auspicious occasion. Enjoy these sweet delights with your loved ones, and may the spirit of Makar Sankranti fill your home with warmth and joy!
