ISHA RECIPE

Healthy Energy Fruit and Nut Laddus

INGREDIENTS

(Makes 10–12 laddus)

¼ cup cashew nuts

¼ cup almonds

¼ cup pistachios

1 cup dates (preferably soft)

½ cup figs (preferably soft)

¼ cup raisins (preferably soft)

1 tablespoon white sesame seeds

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1 tablespoon ghee (preferably from A2 milk)

½ teaspoon cardamom powder

METHOD

  1. 1. Cut the almonds and cashews in thirds or quarters. Cut the pistachios in half.
  2. 2. Heat the ghee on a medium flame, add the almonds and cashews, and roast them just until they start turning fragrant.
  3. 3. Add the pistachios and toast the nuts for another 2–3 minutes.
  4. 4. When the cashews turn slightly golden, remove all the nuts from the pan. Set aside.
  5. 5. Toast the sesame seeds and poppy seeds until aromatic. Set aside.
  6. 6. Deseed the dates. Chop dates, figs, and raisins into small pieces. Lightly sauté the dry fruits; lastly add the cardamom powder.
  7. 7. Allow everything to cool for no longer than 1–2 minutes. The ingredients should still be warm when you form the laddus.
  8. 8. Carefully mix all the ingredients together, starting with the dry fruits, kneading them well, then adding the seeds, and finally the nuts.
  9. 9. Take equal portions of the mixture and gently roll them into balls.
  10. 10. Store the laddus in an airtight container.
  11. Note:
  12. These laddus are packed with essential nutrients. Almonds are not only high in healthy fats, protein, and minerals, but also vitamin E, which helps maintain healthy skin and eyes. Pistachios are a good source of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds; they may even improve blood pressure. Cashew nuts offer heart-healthy fats, protein, and beneficial plant compounds.
  13. Dates are high in micronutrients such as selenium, manganese, magnesium, and copper. Figs are a good source of calcium and potassium, which together can improve bone density. Poppy seeds are rich in essential minerals and fiber, which improve and strengthen the digestive system. Sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, B vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and other beneficial plant compounds. Ghee is rich in healthful monounsaturated Omega-3s that support a healthy heart and cardiovascular system.