Shakkarkandi ke Laddu | Sweet Potato Laddu Recipe
Introduction:
Shakkarkandi ke Laddu, or Sweet Potato Laddu, is a delightful Indian dessert that blends the natural sweetness and rich texture of sweet potatoes with aromatic cardamom, crunchy nuts, and fresh coconut. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with fond memories of my mother preparing it during the winter months. It’s a nourishing and comforting treat that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea, making it an ideal snack for chilly evenings. With its blend of wholesome ingredients, including sweet potatoes, nuts, and coconut, these laddus are both delicious and nutritious.
These sweet potato laddus, brimming with the goodness of natural sugars and healthy fats, are perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for an easy-to-make, satisfying dessert. The addition of cashews, almonds, and raisins elevates the flavor, making these laddus a treat everyone will love.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes (boiled and mashed) | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup (adjust as per taste) |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 3 tablespoons (for filling) + 1 tablespoon (for garnishing) |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 1 tablespoon, crushed coarsely |
| Cashew Nuts | 1 tablespoon, crushed coarsely |
| Sultana Raisins | 10 pieces |
| Ghee | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
60 minutes
Instructions:
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Begin by heating ghee in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the ghee has melted, add the boiled and mashed sweet potatoes. Sauté them for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. This will help release the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and soften the texture.
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Next, add the grated fresh coconut, cardamom powder, coarsely crushed almonds and cashews, raisins, and sugar to the pan. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. Continue to cook on medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to come together as a single mass. This process will take around 3 to 5 minutes.
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Once the mixture has thickened and started to pull away from the sides of the pan, remove it from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly so that it is comfortable enough to handle.
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While the mixture is still warm, shape it into small, round balls using your hands. These should be about the size of a standard laddu, or to your preference.
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To garnish, place some extra grated coconut on a plate. Roll the prepared laddu balls over the grated coconut, ensuring they are well-coated.
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Place the laddus in the refrigerator for about 10 to 15 minutes to firm up. Once they are set, they are ready to serve. Enjoy these sweet, aromatic laddus with your favorite cup of tea for an ideal winter treat.
Allergen Information:
This recipe contains almonds, cashews, and ghee. For individuals with nut allergies, consider substituting with seeds or omitting the nuts entirely. If you are vegan, you can replace the ghee with coconut oil.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free (ensure no cross-contamination with gluten-containing products)
- Dairy (due to ghee)
- Nut-Free (substitute with seeds for nut allergies)
Advice & Tips:
- Adjust the sugar according to your taste preference. Sweet potatoes naturally have a degree of sweetness, so you may not need as much sugar.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the sweet potatoes before cooking. This will make for a silkier laddu.
- For a more intense coconut flavor, feel free to toast the grated coconut lightly before adding it to the mixture.
- These laddus can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.
Conclusion:
Shakkarkandi ke Laddu, or Sweet Potato Laddu, is an irresistible Indian dessert that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Its combination of rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and easy preparation makes it a must-try recipe. Whether you’re looking for a traditional treat or simply want to indulge in something sweet, this dessert is sure to satisfy. Enjoy these laddus during the winter season, paired with tea, or as a sweet snack for any time of the day.
