Top 10 Benefits of Besan Laddu

Besan laddu is a beloved Indian sweet that has been a part of our culture for generations. Made from besan (gram flour), sugar, and ghee, this delicious treat is especially popular during Indian festivals and celebrations such as Diwali.

But did you know that this popular sweet treat also has several health benefits? In this blog, we’ll explore everything from how to make this delicious treat to its numerous health benefits.

What is Besan Laddu?

Besan laddus are traditional sweets made from besan, roasted in ghee, and sweetened with sugar. The besan is roasted until golden-brown and often flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts like almonds or cashews before being shaped into round balls.

This sweet is especially popular in Northern India and is often prepared during special occasions such as weddings, Diwali, and other religious festivals. Besan laddus are relatively easy to make and offer a rich, decadent taste. Now let’s explore the various health benefits of besan laddus.

Top 10 Benefits of Besan Laddu

Besan laddus are packed with essential nutrients and offer these health benefits:

1. Rich in Protein

Gram flour is a plant-based protein, making it a great choice for vegans and vegetarians. Protein is important for muscle repair and overall body functioning.

2. Good Source of Dietary Fiber

Besan is an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion. It promotes healthy bowel movements and keeps you feeling full for longer. When consumed in moderation, besan laddus support digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels.

3. Ghee as a Source of Healthy Fats

Ghee, or clarified butter, is packed with healthy fats that boost immunity, support brain function, and help the body absorb essential vitamins. Ghee also has anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to overall health.

4. Gluten-Free

Besan is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with gluten intolerance or on a gluten-free diet, allowing more people to enjoy this treat.

5. Excellent Source of Energy

Besan laddu is a sweet snack that provides an excellent energy boost. The combination of gram flour, ghee, and sugar makes it a perfect snack or pre-workout treat.

6. Antioxidant Properties

Gram flour is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. These antioxidants promote healthy aging, protect cells from damage, and may reduce the risk of certain diseases.

7. Supports Weight Management

Due to its high protein and fiber content, besan helps keep you full for longer, which may help control appetite. When consumed in moderation, besan laddus can support weight management.

H3: 8. Helps Improve Cholesterol Levels

Ghee contains healthy fats that help raise good cholesterol (HDL) while lowering bad cholesterol (LDL), promoting cardiovascular health.

9. Nutrient-Dense

Besan laddus are rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate, which are essential for overall health. These nutrients support body functions and aid in energy production and immune health.

10. Promotes Skin Health

Ghee is known for its skin-nourishing properties. It contains fatty acids and antioxidants that hydrate the skin, reduce dryness, and promote a healthy glow. In traditional Ayurvedic practices, ghee is also applied topically for skincare.

Read Also: How to Eat Sesame Seeds for Health Benefits: Top 3 Recipes

How to Make Besan Laddu?

Making besan laddus is relatively easy but requires patience and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect besan laddu at home:

Ingredients:

Below are the ingredients required during the making of besan laddu:

• 1 cup besan (gram flour)
• ¼ cup ghee (clarified butter)
• ½ cup powdered sugar or bura
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
• Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)

Steps:

Below are the steps involved in making besan laddu:

1. Roasting the Besan: 

Melt the ghee over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed pan. Once the ghee melts, reduce the heat to low and add the besan. Stir continuously to ensure even roasting.

2. Roasting Process: 

The besan will clump at first, but keep stirring. After about 10-12 minutes, it will begin to loosen and release a nutty aroma. The color will turn golden brown. Continue roasting for 20-25 minutes until the besan achieves a smooth consistency.

3. Cool the Mixture: 

Remove the pan from heat and let the roasted besan cool for about 10 minutes. It should be lukewarm before you add the sugar.

4. Add Sugar and Cardamom: 

Once cooled, add the powdered sugar and cardamom to the besan. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

5. Shaping the Laddus: 

Grease your palms with ghee, take a small portion of the mixture, and shape it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.

6. Store and Enjoy: 

Store the laddus in an airtight container. They can last up to two weeks if stored properly.

Is Besan Laddu Good for Health?

Yes, besan laddu can be a healthy treat when consumed in moderation. Gram flour, ghee, and sugar provide a balanced source of macronutrients like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that fuel the body. The fiber content in besan aids digestion, while the ghee offers healthy fats essential for brain function and heart health.

The antioxidants in besan help reduce inflammation and promote overall cellular health. While besan laddu is calorie-dense, its nutritional value makes it a great occasional treat that supports energy levels and satiation.

FAQs About Benefits of Besan Laddu

Q1. Is Besan Laddu a good source of protein?

Yes, besan laddu is a good source of plant-based protein due to the gram flour (besan). Protein is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function.

Q2. Is Besan Laddu good for weight loss?

In moderation, yes. The high protein and fiber content in besan laddu promotes satiety, helping control appetite, which can support weight management. However, people with diabetes should consume them in moderation.

Q3. Can Besan Laddu help maintain healthy bones?

Yes, besan contains essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are vital for bone health. Ghee also supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin D, crucial for maintaining strong bones.

Q4. How many calories are in one Besan Laddu?

On average, one besan laddu contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the size and amount of ghee and sugar used in the recipe.

Q5. Does Besan Laddu contain antioxidants?

Yes, besan contains antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants contribute to overall cellular health and may reduce inflammation.

Conclusion

Besan laddu is a nutritious snack that offers a range of health benefits. This traditional sweet is a great addition to any festive celebration. However, as they are calorie-dense, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.

Want to savour the rich taste and numerous benefits of besan laddu? Order freshly made besan laddus from Shahi Food Products, Gwalior today. Crafted with premium ingredients and traditional methods, our laddus are the perfect blend of taste and health. Visit our website to place your order now!