Introduction

Multi Millet Ladoo is a delightful and nutritious Indian sweet made from a blend of various millets. These laddoos are not only delicious but also packed with the goodness of fiber, protein, and essential minerals from different millets. Traditionally enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, Multi Millet Ladoo offers a healthy twist to a classic sweet treat. Let’s explore the recipe for making these wholesome and flavorful laddoos.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup foxtail millet flour
• 1/2 cup barnyard millet flour
• 1/2 cup kodo millet flour
• 1/2 cup little millet flour
• 1/2 cup proso millet flour
• 1/2 cup desiccated coconut (unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup jaggery powder or coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios), finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• Ghee or melted butter for shaping the laddoos

Instructions

1. Dry Roasting Millet Flours:
   • Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
   • Add each millet flour (foxtail, barnyard, kodo, little, and proso millet flours) separately and dry roast them individually for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
   • Transfer the roasted millet flours to a large mixing bowl and let them cool completely.
2. Preparing the Ladoo Mixture:
   • Once the roasted millet flours are cooled, add desiccated coconut, jaggery powder or coconut sugar, chopped nuts, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt to the bowl.
   • Mix all the dry ingredients well until thoroughly combined.
3. Adding Ghee:
   • Heat the ghee in a small pan until melted and hot but not smoking.
   • Pour the melted ghee over the dry mixture in the bowl.
   • Using a spoon or clean hands, mix everything together until the ghee is evenly distributed and the mixture holds together when pressed. The warmth from the ghee will help bind the ingredients.
4. Shaping the Ladoos:
   • Take a small portion of the mixture in your hands and gently press and roll it between your palms to form a smooth round ball. If the mixture feels dry and crumbly, add a little more melted ghee and mix again.
   • Repeat the process with the remaining mixture to make equal-sized laddoos.
5. Final Touch:
   • Optionally, roll the shaped laddoos in desiccated coconut or chopped nuts for added texture and decoration.
   • Let the Multi Millet Ladoos cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
6. Storing:
   • Store the laddoos in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. Refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Tips and Variations

• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jaggery or coconut sugar according to your taste preference.
• Nuts: Feel free to use your favorite nuts or seeds such as walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
• Flavoring: You can add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon powder for a different flavor profile.

Health Benefits

Multi Millet Ladoo offers numerous health benefits:

• Mixed Millets: High in dietary fiber, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and iron, supporting digestive health, heart health, and overall well-being.
• Ghee: Provides healthy fats and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Jaggery or Coconut Sugar: Contains trace minerals and is a healthier alternative to refined sugar.

Conclusion

Multi Millet Ladoo is a nutritious and delicious sweet treat that combines the richness of various millets with the natural sweetness of jaggery or coconut sugar. This recipe allows you to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence packed with wholesome ingredients. Try making Multi Millet Ladoo at home and share these delightful laddoos with family and friends during festive celebrations or as a wholesome snack.

Feel free to share your experiences or variations of this recipe in the comments below. Enjoy making and savoring these nutritious Multi Millet Ladoos!