Diwali, the Festival of Lights, will be celebrated on October 31st in Mauritius, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Among the cherished traditions of this vibrant festival, sweets hold a special place. One of the must-have treats is the ladoo—delightfully sweet little balls that bring a festive spirit to life. Today, we're sharing a simple yet indulgent recipe for Coconut and Cardamom Ladoo.
Ingredients:
- 250g grated coconut
- 200g sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- A handful of chopped pistachios or slivered almonds for garnish
Preparation:
Toast the coconut: In a large non-stick pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once melted, add the grated coconut and gently toast it for a few minutes. This step releases the fragrant oils, giving your ladoos a delightful crunch and deeper flavor. Stir constantly to prevent the coconut from burning. This phase is crucial for bringing out the subtle sweetness and creating the perfect texture for your ladoos.
Incorporate the condensed milk: Once the coconut is beautifully golden, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir well, ensuring the coconut absorbs the milk evenly. The mixture should thicken and start to pull away from the sides of the pan. At this stage, the ingredients meld together, creating a perfectly balanced, rich base for the ladoos.
Add the cardamom: Sprinkle the ground cardamom over the mixture and stir for a few more minutes. This warm, aromatic spice adds an exotic depth, transforming the ladoos into a true Diwali delicacy. The fragrance alone will transport you to the festive celebrations of generations past.
Shape the ladoos: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, just enough to handle comfortably. Dampen your hands with a little water to prevent sticking, then shape the mixture into small, walnut-sized balls. Place them gently onto a serving tray.
Decorate and finish: For a refined finishing touch, sprinkle a few pieces of chopped pistachios or slivered almonds onto each ladoo. These crunchy additions bring texture and a beautiful contrast of colors. You can also roll the ladoos in extra grated coconut for added indulgence.
Coconut and Cardamom Ladoos are not only easy to make but they capture the very essence of Diwali—sweetness, warmth, and togetherness. These bite-sized delights melt in your mouth, leaving behind a lingering hint of cardamom that perfectly complements the celebration.
Happy Diwali to all—enjoy every delicious bite!
