A popular Indian sweet, motichoor laddoo is prized for its rich flavour and small, pearl-like texture. The word "motichoor" is a combination of two words. In Hindi, the word moti refers to a pearl, and the word choor or chur means crumble. This healthier and oil-free variation, which is made with besan (gram flour), uses soaked chana dal (split chickpeas) to achieve the same delicious flavour and tenderness without deep-frying. In India, motichoor laddoos are a mainstay of festival thalis and temple offerings, symbolising happiness, wealth, and devotion.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1 cupChana dal / split chickpeas
1/2 cupSugar or as per taste
1/4 cupWater
3-4 piecesSaffron strands
¼ tspCardamom powder
2 tbspChopped nuts of your choice
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Step 1: Soak and grind the chana dal
Rinse 1 cup split chickpeas (chana dal) thoroughly.
Soak in enough water for 4–6 hours or overnight.
Drain and grind into a coarse paste using a few tablespoons of water.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Steam cook the batter
Grease a tin or vessel and spread the coarse paste evenly.
Place it in a pressure cooker with water at the base (like pot-in-pot).
Pressure cook for 2 whistles, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Let the pressure release naturally and cool completely.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Grate to make boondi
Cut the cooked batter into 4 pieces.
Grate each piece using a medium grater to get fine boondi.
Measure the grated boondi and adjust the sugar based on the sweetness preference.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Roast the boondi
Heat 2 tbsp ghee in a pan.
Add the boondi and roast on low to medium heat for 12–15 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
Description - Step 5
Prepare Sugar Syrup and Mix
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup sugar and ¼ cup water.
Add a few saffron strands.
Boil for 2–3 minutes and then reduce the heat.
Add chopped nuts and the syrup to the roasted boondi.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture absorbs the syrup and starts leaving the sides.
Add ½ tsp cardamom powder and mix well.
Description - Step 6
Step 6: Shape the laddoos
While warm, take small portions and roll into round laddoos using your palms.