Ladhoo

Ladhoo (also spelled Ladoo, Laḍḍū or Laddu) is a popular spherical sweet originating from the Indian subcontinent. Ladhoos are primarily made from flour, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter) or oil. Other ingredients can vary widely depending on the recipe and regional variations. Common additions include nuts, dried fruits, spices like cardamom, and sometimes edible resins or seeds.

Ladhoos are often served during festive or religious occasions like Diwali, weddings, and births. They are also commonly offered as prasad (a devotional offering) in temples. Different types of ladhoos are associated with specific deities or festivals.

The texture of a ladhoo can range from soft and crumbly to dense and chewy. The flavor profiles also vary widely, depending on the ingredients used. Some popular types of ladhoos include Motichoor Ladhoo (made with tiny fried gram flour pearls), Besan Ladhoo (made with gram flour), Atta Ladhoo (made with whole wheat flour), and Rava Ladhoo (made with semolina). Regional variations exist, with different areas having their own unique recipes and ingredients.

The preparation method generally involves roasting the flour in ghee or oil until it is fragrant, then mixing it with sugar syrup and other ingredients. The mixture is then shaped into balls while still warm.