Tilgul (Sesame and Jaggery Ladoo) Recipes for Makar Sankranti
1. Introduction
About the Recipe
Tilgul, a traditional Indian sweet made with sesame seeds and jaggery, is popular during Makar Sankranti. This easy-to-make dish is known for its crunchy texture and rich flavor. Often shaped into ladoos, Tilgul symbolizes goodwill and is exchanged as a gesture of friendship and happiness.
Why This Recipe is Easy
Tilgul ladoos are simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time. Even if you're new to cooking, you'll find this recipe straightforward and quick to execute. You can easily find the necessary ingredients at your local grocery store or online.
2. Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup jaggery
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Possible Substitutions
If you prefer, you can replace jaggery with honey or sugar, though the flavor may slightly differ. Additionally, you can experiment with other seeds like flaxseeds or sunflower seeds for a different twist.
3. Equipment Needed
Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Frying pan or wok (कड़ाही)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wax paper
Optional Equipment
- Ladoo molds (for shaping the ladoos uniformly). Shop High-Quality Seesame Seeds Here
4. Preparation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the sesame seeds in a frying pan over low heat until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma.
- In the same pan, melt the ghee, then add jaggery and water. Stir until the jaggery completely melts and forms a syrup.
- Once the jaggery syrup reaches a single thread consistency, remove it from heat.
- Immediately add the toasted sesame seeds and cardamom powder, mixing thoroughly.
- Let the mixture cool for a few minutes and then shape it into small ladoos while it is still warm.
Time Estimates
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
5. Cooking Instructions
Detailed Cooking Steps
Ensure that the jaggery syrup reaches the right consistency (single thread) for the ladoos to set properly. If the syrup is too thick, your ladoos may be hard; too thin, and they may not hold their shape.
Important Notes
Keep a watchful eye on the sesame seeds while toasting them to prevent burning. Also, you can use ghee or oil for a smoother texture when making the ladoos.
6. Serving Suggestions
How to Plate the Dish
Once the ladoos are ready, plate them on a decorative tray and serve as a sweet treat. They are often given to guests or exchanged as gifts during Makar Sankranti celebrations.
Pairings
These ladoos pair perfectly with a glass of warm milk or chai. You can also serve them with a light fruit salad for a balanced meal.
7. Storage & Leftovers
How to Store the Dish
Store the ladoos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Reheating Instructions
If refrigerated, you can bring the ladoos back to room temperature by leaving them out for a few hours before serving.
8. Variations & Customization
Recipe Modifications
Add chopped nuts like almonds or cashews to the ladoo mixture for extra crunch. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for a festive twist.
Flavor Adjustments
For a more robust flavor, add a pinch of saffron or rose water to the jaggery syrup. You can experiment with different sweeteners like coconut sugar for a unique flavor.
9. Nutritional Information
Calories per Serving
Each ladoo contains approximately 150-180 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used.
Macronutrients Breakdown
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugars: 16g