Coconut-Semolina Laddu

This time Ganpati Utsav celebration was again big and a memorable one. In our society the function is for 7 days, the first and the last day being the grand one. Each day we have morning and evening aarti where one nominated resident takes the responsibility for Ganeshji’s bhog and aarti for one morning or evening. Evening aartis are followed by different events and activities. 7 days of fun and excitement, busy and time management- a most awaited event of the year.

courtsey Google

This time I had the responsibility of the aarti and bhog on the first day of the puja, i.e., on Ganesh Chaturthi. For the first time I have made Prasad for 100 people- coconut-semolina laddu. It was finished then and there and appreciated but I could not taste any as I was busy in distributing them and when I finished I found all the boxes empty. Even though I could not taste it but I was happy that everyone liked it.

Now, the recipe

Ingredients  

Semolina/suji – 1 kg
Grated Coconut- 1 kg
Sugar – 1 kg
Ghee: 2tbsp
Milk- ½ L (optional)
A pinch of salt
A pinch of camphor powder
Cashew and raisins to decorate

NOTE: I have given the ingredients for 100-120 pieces but you may not make in such an amount. Just remember the quantity of semolina and coconut should be the same, sugar should be at least half of the added quantity of semolina and coconut, i.e.,  I have taken 1 kg each both semolina and coconut which makes them 2 kgs, so the quantity of sugar is 1 kg. Anything less than this will be difficult to bind.

Method                                                                                                                        
Heat ghee in a deep bottomed pan.

Add semolina and coconut and keep the gas on medium flame. 

Keep stirring continuously or they might burn at the bottom.

Stir and you will find the oil coming out from coconut. Now add sugar to the mix and stir.

Add salt and camphor powder.

If you are adding milk then by this time boil and let the milk reduce to half of its quantity. I prefer to add this as it enhances the taste.

Now you will see that the sugar is melted and the mixture started to bind. Switch off the gas before it become too hard.

Now take water in a bowl and wet your palms. Take a small quantity of mixture (as per the size of the laddoos) and shape them round. You can decorate them at the top with half cut cashew and raisins.

Allow them to cool and serve.