Winter in India brings with it the joy of indulging in delicious traditional sweets that not only taste amazing but are also packed with health benefits. One such sweet that is loved by many during this season is Gond ke Laddu. This version is made with pearl millet flour (bajra), edible gum (gond), ghee, jaggery, and a mix of seeds and nuts, making these laddus gluten free and refined sugar free. These are a perfect winter treat for the body and soul.
Why Bajra Gond Laddu is Ideal for Winter
Bajra (Pearl Millet):
Pearl millet is a powerhouse of nutrients, especially during the colder months. It is rich in fiber, iron, and essential minerals that help boost immunity and provide warmth to the body. Bajra is also considered a great energy booster, which is why it’s perfect for those chilly winter mornings.
Edible Gum (Gond):
Gond, or edible gum, is often used in traditional Indian sweets during winter. It is known to have incredible health benefits, including improving joint health and strengthening bones. Gond is considered a great ingredient for boosting overall strength and vitality, especially during the colder months when our bodies need extra warmth and nourishment. When combined with ghee and jaggery, it is considered helpful to balance the body’s internal temperature.
Ghee and Jaggery:
The combination of ghee and jaggery in this laddu makes it a winter wonder. Ghee, a rich source of healthy fats, helps to keep the body warm. It also aids in digestion and enhances the absorption of nutrients. Jaggery, a natural sweetener, is rich in iron and minerals.
Nutritional Benefits
This Gond laddu recipe is full of healthy fats, proteins, and fiber. Apart from Bajra flour, this recipe uses besan/chickpea flour which is high in protein and contains all essential amino acids. It also uses lots of nuts and seeds like almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and flaxseeds makes it even more nutritious. These ingredients are loaded with vitamins and minerals that support overall health, especially skin and bone health. Plus, the natural sweetness of jaggery makes it a healthier indulgence compared to refined sugar.
A Perfect Treat for the Entire Family
This eggless, gluten-free laddu is suitable for all age groups. It’s a great snack for children, adults, and the elderly alike. With its warming properties, it helps keep the body energized and immune to seasonal illnesses like colds and coughs. It also makes for a wonderful gift to friends and family during the festive season, especially when you want to share something that is homemade and packed with health benefits.
I love having one laddu in the morning with a cup of warm milk as my breakfast. You can also have it as a mid-day snack or an after meal dessert.
If you love millet based laddus, you may like this Ragi Date Laddu recipe!
Bajra Gond Laddu is not just a tasty treat; it is a blend of tradition, nutrition, and warmth that is perfect for the winter months. So, the next time you crave something sweet and wholesome, consider making these laddus. Enjoy the goodness of bajra, gond, ghee, and jaggery in every bite!
