Gujarati Uparghi Laadu: Whole Wheat & Banana Sweet Squares

Uparghi Laadu (Whole Wheat Flour & Banana Squares)

Description:
Uparghi Laadu is a traditional Gujarati dessert that is often prepared during winter festivals, especially for Uttarayan. Though it’s called a “ladoo,” it’s square-shaped, not round, and offers a delightful mix of whole wheat flour, bananas, jaggery, and ghee.

Cuisine: Gujarati
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:

  • 2 cups Whole Wheat Flour
  • 1 tablespoon Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Ghee
  • Water (for kneading)

• Other Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup Jaggery
  • 1/4 cup Ghee
  • 2 Ripe Bananas (peeled and chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons Caster Sugar (adjustable)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a deep bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, oil, and ghee. Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a stiff dough. The dough should be firm, not soft or sticky.

2. Shape the Dough:
   Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and roll them into balls. Dust lightly with flour and roll each ball into a medium-thickness circle, similar to a bhakhri. Prick with a fork or make small cuts using a knife.

3. Cook the Bhakris:
   Traditionally, these bhakris are cooked on an earthen tawa. If unavailable, use a non-stick griddle. Heat the tawa and cook each bhakhri over low to medium flame, pressing with a flat spoon or spatula until golden brown spots appear on both sides. Cook all the bhakris this way and let them cool.

4. Grind the Bhakris:
   Once the bhakris have cooled, break them into small pieces and place them into a mixer jar. Grind to a coarse texture. Add jaggery to the mixture and grind again until smooth.

5. Combine Ingredients:
   Transfer the ground mixture to a wide bowl. Add the chopped bananas and mix well. In a small pan, heat ghee until melted and then pour it over the mixture. Mix everything well by hand, ensuring the ghee and jaggery are well-blended.

6. Shape the Laadu:
   Grease a plate and spread the mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Once set, cut the mixture into square or diamond shapes.

Storage:
Uparghi Laadu can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Enjoy this sweet and nutritious treat from Gujarat, perfect for festive occasions or as a comforting winter dessert!