Besan Laddu – A popular dessert made in India with roasted chickpea powder. Typically this recipe requires stirring the mix continuously on a stovetop to avoid burning. The microwave version of the recipe reduces cook time and is relatively fail proof.

Serving Size: 12-15 Laddus; Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients for Besan Laddu 1 cup Laddu Besan Flour (else use 1 cup regular besan, replace 1 tbsp of besan with 1 tbsp of semolina) ½ cup Confectioners Sugar (can be adjusted to taste) 4 tablespoons ghee melted 4 tablespoons unsalted pistachios nuts (can use any assorted unsalted nuts or skip it entirely) 3/4 teaspoon Cardamom Powder  1 pinch salt Step 1: Prep Direction: Chop nuts roughly. Nuts are optional but do add a nice crunch. Keep 1 tablespoon aside for garnish. Take a microwave safe bowl and melt ghee, about 30-40 seconds. Add besan and salt. Mix until besan has absorbed all the ghee. Step 2: Microwave Cooking Direction: Microwave on the default setting for 1minute and stir well. Do this for 2 times. Then in increments of 30 seconds until the color changes to a medium golden color. This can take between 3.5 to 5 minutes of total time depending on the microwave. You will be able to smell a strong aroma of roasted besan. Add chopped nuts and let it cool at room temperature for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Rolling the laddu Direction: When the mix is cool to the touch, add sugar and cardamom powder. Mix until the sugar is incorporated well. To make ladoos, take a small portion of the mix in the palm of your hand, press and roll between your palms by moving your hand in a circular motion to shape it like a ball. Top with chopped nuts and serve. Storage: These laddu’s can be stored at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks in an air tight container. Tips: Use good quality fresh besan. If the besan is stale, it will smell and taste bitter. If the mix appears too dry, add melted ghee. If too wet then add more besan.