Bhai Dooj, a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters, is made even more special with the sweetness of traditional Indian sweets. Among these, laddu stands out as a popular choice, symbolising the festive joy and warmth of family gatherings. Different types of laddu, from classic besan laddu to nutrient-packed gond ke laddu, offer unique flavours and benefits.
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Each variety has a distinctive preparation method, and their ingredients make them perfect for the winter season, adding not just sweetness but also warmth and health benefits to the celebrations. Here’s a closer look at some delightful laddu varieties to consider making for Bhai Dooj.
Gond Ke Laddu
Gond ke laddu is made from edible gum, wheat flour, ghee, and a blend of nuts. These laddus are traditionally prepared in winter for their warming properties and are especially beneficial for energy and immunity. Edible gum, or gond, is known to strengthen joints and keep the body warm. The rich texture and nutty flavour make it a comforting treat that’s perfect for Bhai Dooj.
Motichoor Laddu
Motichoor laddu, a favourite at festivals, is made from tiny, soft boondi pearls fried and mixed with sugar syrup and then shaped into balls. Its vibrant orange colour and soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture make it appealing to all ages. Motichoor laddus are often flavoured with cardamom and garnished with slivers of almonds or pistachios, adding a special festive touch to this Bhai Dooj delicacy.
Besan Laddu
Besan laddu is made with roasted gram flour, ghee, and sugar, giving it a nutty flavour and a crumbly texture. The flour is slow-roasted to a golden-brown colour, which brings out its unique aroma. A hint of cardamom and the addition of crushed nuts enhance the taste. Besan laddus are not only delicious but also high in protein, making them a nutritious treat for this festive season.
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Murmura Laddu
Murmura laddu, also known as puffed rice laddu, is a lighter, crispy laddu made by binding puffed rice with jaggery. The process involves melting jaggery to a sticky consistency before mixing in the puffed rice, which gives the laddu a crunchy, airy texture. These laddus are relatively low in calories compared to other sweets and are perfect for those looking for a lighter option for Bhai Dooj.
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Ragi Laddu
Ragi laddu is made from ragi (finger millet) flour, jaggery, and ghee, making it a nutritious option for health-conscious families. Ragi is rich in calcium and iron, which supports bone health and boosts energy. These laddus are particularly beneficial for children and the elderly, as they provide essential nutrients in a tasty form. A touch of cardamom enhances their earthy flavour, making them a delightful treat.
Coconut Laddu
Coconut laddu is a simple and flavourful laddu made with grated coconut, sugar or jaggery, and a dash of cardamom. These laddus can be made with fresh or desiccated coconut, which gives them a soft, chewy texture. Coconut laddus are often prepared for quick, festive treats as they require minimal ingredients and time. Their mildly sweet taste and tender texture make them perfect for any festive occasion, including Bhai Dooj.
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Dry Fruit Laddu
Dry fruit laddu is a rich and wholesome variety made by blending chopped dry fruits like almonds, cashews, dates, and figs, bound together with a little ghee. These laddus are packed with nutrients and provide a natural source of energy. Unlike other laddus, they don’t require sugar, as the natural sweetness of dates and figs brings the right balance. These nutrient-rich laddus are ideal for gifting and sharing during Bhai Dooj, especially for family members looking for a healthy treat.