Green Tea Coconut Ladoo Recipe – Coconut Energy Balls
The Green Tea Coconut Ladoo is a delightful, health-conscious treat that fuses the natural goodness of fresh coconut, the aromatic flavor of cardamom, and the antioxidant power of green tea. These energy balls are not only a great dessert choice but also a perfect snack for anyone looking to indulge in something both delicious and nutritious. They are easy to make, and the ingredients used are common in Indian households, making them a quick and satisfying option for both festive occasions like Diwali and your everyday tea-time.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 2 cups |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds (powdered) | 4 pods |
| Condensed Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Tetley Long Leaf Green Tea (powdered) | 2 tablespoons |
| Dessicated Coconut (for outer cover) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 235 kcal |
| Protein | 3.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
To begin making the Green Tea Coconut Ladoo, gather all the ingredients in advance and place them by the side for easy access. This will streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Roast the Fresh Coconut
Heat 1 teaspoon of ghee in a wide pan over low to medium heat. Add the grated fresh coconut and roast it gently for about 5 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid browning the coconut, as you want to achieve a roasted aroma without overcooking it. This step enhances the flavor of the coconut and adds richness to the ladoos.
Step 3: Add Green Tea, Cardamom, and Condensed Milk
Once the coconut is roasted and aromatic, it’s time to introduce the flavoring elements. Add 2 tablespoons of Tetley Long Leaf Green Tea powder and 4 cardamom pods (powdered in a mortar-pestle). Mix well, allowing the green tea and cardamom to infuse into the coconut.
Next, pour in 1/2 cup of condensed milk and stir thoroughly. Let the mixture cook on low to medium heat for about 5 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. The condensed milk will begin to thicken, and you’ll notice the coconut mixture starting to leave the sides of the pan.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency (Optional)
If at any point the mixture does not begin to leave the sides of the pan, you can add a small amount of oats flour to help thicken the mixture. Oats work as an excellent binding agent and will not alter the taste of your ladoos, ensuring they hold together well.
Step 5: Cool the Mixture
Once the mixture has thickened and is coming away from the sides of the pan, turn off the heat. Transfer the mixture to a flat plate and allow it to cool for a few minutes, or until it is cool enough to handle.
Step 6: Shape the Ladoos
Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, take small portions and roll them into round balls. The size can vary, but typically a tablespoon-sized ball works well.
Step 7: Coat with Dessicated Coconut
Roll the ladoos over the 1/4 cup of dessicated coconut to give them a snowy, elegant finish. This outer layer adds texture and a hint of sweetness to each bite.
Step 8: Serve and Store
Serve the Green Tea Coconut Ladoos as a sweet treat during festivals like Diwali, or pair them with your evening Masala Chai or Filter Coffee. You can store the ladoos in the refrigerator for up to a week, keeping them fresh and ready for snacking.
Tips & Variations:
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of condensed milk and sweeten the ladoos with a natural sweetener like jaggery or honey.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a few chopped nuts like cashews or almonds to the coconut mixture before rolling it into ladoos.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute the ghee with coconut oil and the condensed milk with a plant-based condensed milk option.
These Green Tea Coconut Ladoos are not only a delicious treat but also offer health benefits, thanks to the green tea’s antioxidants and the energy-boosting properties of coconut. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free, flavorful snack!
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
