Poha Ladoo with Chocolate and Coconut
Recipe Name: Poha Ladoo with Chocolate and Coconut
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Poha Ladoo is a unique twist on traditional Indian sweets, combining the wholesome flavors of poha (flattened rice) with the richness of jaggery, coconut, and a surprising touch of chocolate. This delightful treat is perfect for everyday indulgence or as a festive dessert. Let’s dive into this fusion recipe that brings together tradition and modern flavors with a coconut-chocolate filling that makes it simply irresistible.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (white or red flattened rice) | 1½ cups |
| Jaggery (grated) | ¾ cup |
| Green Cardamom (crushed) | 4 pods |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 4 tbsp |
| Chocolate Chips | 3 tbsp |
| Ghee | ¼ cup |
| Cashews | 10 pieces |
| Raisins | 10 pieces |
Instructions
-
Roasting the Poha
Begin by heating a pan over medium heat. Add the poha (flattened rice) and roast it until it turns crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even roasting. This will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once the poha is roasted, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool down completely. -
Grinding Poha and Jaggery
Once the poha is cool, transfer it to a blender. Add the crushed cardamom pods and grated jaggery. Blend everything together until it forms a fine powder. This poha-jaggery mixture will serve as the base for your ladoos. Set this mixture aside in a large bowl. -
Preparing the Coconut and Chocolate Filling
In the same pan, add the grated coconut and dry roast it for about 5 to 6 minutes. The coconut should release a mild fragrance and turn slightly golden. Turn off the heat and add the chocolate chips to the pan while the coconut is still warm. Stir gently until the chocolate melts and blends with the coconut. Set this mixture aside to cool slightly. -
Tempering with Ghee
In a small pan, heat the ghee. Once it’s hot, add the cashews and roast them until golden brown. Add the raisins and cook for another minute until they puff up. Remove from heat and pour the ghee-cashew-raisin mixture into the poha-jaggery mix. -
Combining Ingredients
Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together—poha powder, ghee, cashew, and raisins. The warmth of the ghee will help the mixture bind together. Knead the mixture gently until it starts to hold shape like dough. -
Shaping the Laddus
Now take small portions of the coconut-chocolate mixture and roll them into tiny balls. These will be used as the filling for the ladoos. Take a portion of the poha mixture and flatten it on your palm, place the chocolate-coconut filling in the center, and carefully fold the edges to cover the filling. Roll the mixture into smooth ladoos. Repeat the process for the remaining mixture and filling. -
Serving
Your Poha Ladoo with Chocolate and Coconut are ready to be served! These deliciously sweet and slightly crunchy ladoos can be enjoyed as a dessert after meals or prepared during festive occasions.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
| Sodium | 20 mg |
Tips for Perfect Poha Ladoo:
- Type of Poha: You can use either white or red poha depending on availability and preference. Red poha adds a nuttier flavor and is slightly healthier due to its higher fiber content.
- Ghee Quality: The quality of ghee plays a significant role in the flavor. Try using homemade ghee or high-quality store-bought ghee for the best results.
- Filling Variations: While this recipe uses a chocolate-coconut filling, you can also experiment with different fillings such as dry fruits, nuts, or even flavored syrups for a different twist.
- Serving Suggestions: These ladoos make a great snack with tea or coffee or can be a special treat for kids. You can also pack them for travel or share them with friends during festivals.
Why You Should Try This Recipe:
Poha Ladoo with Chocolate and Coconut brings together the traditional Indian flavor profile with a modern touch, making it a versatile dessert that appeals to both young and old alike. The use of poha ensures a light and crunchy texture, while jaggery adds depth and richness. The addition of chocolate makes it a fun dessert for kids, and the coconut adds a delightful tropical flavor.
Whether you’re looking for something unique to serve during the festive season or want to indulge in a quick homemade sweet treat, this Poha Ladoo recipe is sure to impress!
