Motichur Ladoo is a traditional Indian sweet made with tiny boondi (fried gram flour pearls) soaked in sugar syrup and shaped into delicious, melt-in-the-mouth ladoos. These ladoos are a staple during festivals and celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Boondi:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 3/4 cup water
- A pinch of orange or yellow food color (optional)
- Ghee or oil, for deep frying
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
- A few saffron strands (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios or almonds (optional)
- Edible silver leaf (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Boondi Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine gram flour, water, and food color (if using). Whisk until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
- The batter should be of a flowing consistency, neither too thick nor too thin.
Step 2: Fry the Boondi
- Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Hold a perforated ladle (boondi jhara) over the pan. Pour a small amount of batter onto the ladle and gently tap it to allow the batter to fall into the hot oil, forming small pearls.
- Fry the boondi until they are cooked but not crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
- In a pan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add cardamom powder, rose water, and saffron strands (if using). Cook until the syrup reaches a one-string consistency (when a drop of syrup between your fingers forms a single thread when pulled apart).
Step 4: Combine Boondi and Syrup
- Add the fried boondi to the sugar syrup and mix well until the boondi absorbs the syrup completely.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 5: Shape the Ladoos
- While the mixture is still warm, grease your palms with a little ghee and shape the boondi mixture into small, round ladoos.
- Place the ladoos on a plate and let them set at room temperature.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the ladoos with chopped nuts and edible silver leaf (if using).
- Serve fresh or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Motichur Ladoo
- Consistent Boondi Size: Use a proper perforated ladle to ensure even-sized boondi.
- Perfect Syrup: Ensure the sugar syrup is not too thick or thin; it should just coat the boondi.
- Shape While Warm: Ladoos are easier to shape while the mixture is warm. Work quickly but carefully.
Nutrition Facts (Per Ladoo)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
Motichur Ladoo is a delightful treat that brings a burst of sweetness to any festive occasion. Perfectly soft and flavorful, these ladoos are sure to impress!