Gujarati Kachariyu Recipe – Spiced Sesame and Coconut Ladoos
Description:
Gujarati Kachariyu is a traditional winter snack, made of spiced sesame seeds and coconut ladoos filled with dates and figs. A time-honored recipe in Gujarati households, it is often prepared during colder months to help keep warm and boost energy with its heat-inducing properties. These ladoos are not only delicious but also packed with the goodness of jaggery, nuts, and dry fruits.
Cuisine: Gujarati
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
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For Kachariyu:
- 1 cup Sesame seeds (Til seeds)
- 3/4 cup Desiccated coconut
- 1/4 cup Whole almonds (Badam), chopped
- 1/4 cup Melon seeds
- 1/2 cup Jaggery
- 1 teaspoon Dry ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom powder (Elaichi)
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For the filling:
- A generous pinch Nutmeg powder
- 12 Dates (black, pitted and chopped)
- 5-6 Dried figs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Ghee
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
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Prepare the filling:
- Place a skillet or kadai on medium heat and add ghee. Once the ghee has melted, add the chopped dates and figs. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes mushy and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, forming a sticky ball.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small marble-sized balls and set them aside.
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Prepare the Kachariyu mixture:
- In a pan or kadai, lightly toast the sesame seeds, desiccated coconut, chopped almonds, and melon seeds.
- Once toasted, transfer the mixture to a grinder. Add jaggery and grind it to a fine mixture.
- Add dry ginger powder, cardamom powder, and nutmeg powder to the mixture. Pulse again a couple of times until everything is evenly blended.
- The sesame seeds and coconut will release oil, making the mixture slightly crumbly. When pressed, the mixture should come together lightly in your hand. If it doesn’t, pulse a few more times.
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Form the ladoos:
- Take a small spoonful of the prepared Kachariyu mixture and press it lightly in the palm of your hand to form a small well.
- Place a filling ball (dates and figs mixture) in the center of the well. Gently bring the sides together to form a ladoo, sealing the filling inside.
- Repeat this process for all the ladoos.
- Optionally, roll the ladoos in desiccated coconut or finely chopped almonds for an extra garnish.
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Storage and Serving:
- Store the Kachariyu ladoos in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Serve as a festive treat during special occasions or enjoy them as a healthy mid-morning snack or a snack box treat.
- These ladoos pair wonderfully with a cup of Masala Chai for a delightful snack.
Enjoy the wholesome and spiced flavors of these Gujarati Kachariyu ladoos, a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and ideal for a winter treat!
