Bundi Laddu Recipe

Bundi Laddu is a classic Indian sweet made from tiny, round gram flour (besan) droplets, which are fried and then coated in a sugar syrup. The result is a delightful sweet treat that is both crunchy and syrupy. Making Bundi Laddu involves several steps, but with patience and attention to detail, you can create these delicious laddus at home. Here’s a comprehensive recipe to guide you through the process.

Ingredients:

For the Bundi:

• 1 cup besan (gram flour)
• 1/2 cup of water (adjusted to make the batter)
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (for pigmentation)
• Oil for deep frying

For the Sugar Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• A few saffron strands (optional)
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice (to prevent crystallization)

For Garnishing:

• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (cashews, almonds) (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped dried fruits (raisins, dried dates) (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

In a mixing bowl, combine the besan with the salt, baking powder, and turmeric powder (if using). Gradually add water to the besan while stirring to create a smooth, lump-free batter. It should have a pourable nevertheless moderately thick consistency. You might need to adjust the amount of water to get the right consistency.

2. Heat the Oil:

• It should have a pourable yet slightly thick consistency.
  In a deep-frying skillet or kadai, warm the oil over a medium-high flame. Enough oil must be used to completely cover the bundi.

3. Fry the Bundi:

• To make the bundi, you need a perforated spoon or a slotted ladle with holes. Hold the ladle above the hot oil and pour some batter over it, letting the batter drip through the holes into the oil. You should get tiny droplets of batter falling into the oil.
• Fry the bundi in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry until the bundi turns golden brown and becomes crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove and set on paper towels to drain.

4. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:

• Stir the water and sugar in a different pan. Stirring occasionally, simmer over medium heat until the sugar melts completely.
• Once the syrup starts to boil, add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using). Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it reaches a one-string consistency. To test, place a tiny bit of syrup between your thumb and fingers; when pushed apart, it will form a single string. Stir gently after pouring the lemon juice.

5. Combine Bundi and Syrup:

• Add the fried bundi to the warm sugar syrup. Stir gently to ensure all the bundi is well-coated with syrup. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the bundi to soak up the syrup. This step helps the bundi become soft and slightly sticky.

6. Shape the Laddu:

• Grease your palms with a little ghee or butter. Once the mixture is slightly cooled but still warm, take small portions and shape them into round laddus. If the mixture is too sticky, let it cool a bit more before shaping.

7. Garnish:

• If desired, garnish the laddus with chopped nuts and dried fruits while they are still slightly warm. This adds a nice texture and additional flavor.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Place the shaped laddus on a tray or plate and let them cool completely. Once laddus get cool down, they will firm up a bit. Store them in an airtight container. Bundi laddus can be enjoyed for up to a week.

Tips:

• Consistency of the Batter: The consistency of the batter is crucial for getting the perfect bundi. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but thin enough to drop through the ladle holes. If it’s too thick, add water. If it’s too runny, add a little bit besan.
• Testing the Oil Temperature: To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of batter into the oil. It should rise to the surface quickly and sizzle. The oil is not sufficiently heated if it falls.
• Prevent Overflowing: For even cooking and avoid a lack of space which may lower the oil temperature, prepare the bundi in batches.
• Sugar Syrup Consistency: Be careful not to overcook the syrup. It could become too thick and stiffen the laddus. If it’s too thin, the laddus might not set properly.

Bundi Laddu is a treat that combines the crunchiness of fried gram flour droplets with the sweetness of sugar syrup, making it a favorite during festive occasions and celebrations. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful sweet!

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