Besan Ladu

Recipe by Aai

Ingredients:

• 1 c Chick pea flour (besan)
• 6-8 oz. butter (I use 6 oz.)
• 1/2 c Carnation milk powder
• 1/2 c ground almonds / cashews [the nuts can be omitted and substituted with 1/2 c besan]
• 1 c powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 c raisins (optional)

Method:

1. On low heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the chick pea flour and fry for 20 min.s or until the flour changes color and turns golden brown. There is a unique aroma to well roasted flour.
3. Add the Carnation milk powder and the nuts. Fry for another 5 mins.
4. Remove from the range and leave aside for 10 mins.
5. When the mixture is still warm, add the powdered sugar, raisins (optional) and the flavorings. Mix well.
6. Take a palmful and press firmly; roll into balls in the palm of your hand.

Makes 12 (large) – 15 (small) ladus.