Til Gul Balls, also known as sesame ladoo, are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of roasted sesame seeds with the rich sweetness of jaggery. These small, round balls are a staple during Indian festivals like Makar Sankranti, where they symbolize the warmth and prosperity of the season. Imagine biting into a Til Gul Ball and experiencing the perfect balance of crunchy sesame seeds, the deep caramel notes of jaggery, and a subtle hint of cardamom that lingers on your palate. Each bite is a journey of flavors and textures, making these ladoos not only a festive treat but also a comforting, wholesome snack that can be enjoyed anytime.

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The magic of Til Gul Balls lies in their simplicity and the way traditional ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both flavorful and nutritious. The sesame seeds are lightly toasted to bring out their natural oils and nutty aroma, while the jaggery is melted to form a sticky, sweet base that holds the ladoos together. A pinch of cardamom powder adds warmth and depth, elevating the flavors and giving these balls a uniquely aromatic quality. The result is a sweet that’s rich in flavor, packed with nutrients, and deeply rooted in cultural traditions, making it a must-have for festive occasions.

What makes Til Gul Balls even more special is how easy they are to prepare, with just a few ingredients and minimal effort required. The process is straightforward, yet the results are impressive—perfectly round, golden balls that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the taste buds. These ladoos are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, thanks to the goodness of sesame seeds and jaggery, which are known for their high iron and calcium content. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Til Gul Balls offer a taste of tradition that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve Til Gul Balls as a festive treat during celebrations like Makar Sankranti, Diwali, or Lohri.

- Pair them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

- Pack them in small gift boxes or jars as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season.

- Enjoy them as a post-meal sweet that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

- Store them in an airtight container and enjoy a quick, energy-boosting snack anytime.

Nutritional Information (per ball, based on 12 balls):

• • - Calories: 150
  • - Total Fat: 8g
  • - Saturated Fat: 1g
  • - Cholesterol: 0mg
  • - Sodium: 5mg
  • - Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • - Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • - Sugars: 14g
  • - Protein: 3g

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Storage Information:

- Store the Til Gul Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a month. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

- These ladoos can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Til Gul Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 1 cup white sesame seeds (til)
• - 3/4 cup jaggery, grated
• - 2 tablespoons water
• - 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• - 1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Sesame Seeds:

   - Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and dry roast them, stirring continuously until they turn golden brown and start to release their aroma. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Jaggery Syrup:

   - In the same pan, add the grated jaggery and water. Cook over low heat, stirring until the jaggery dissolves completely and forms a thick syrup. This should take about 5-7 minutes. To test the consistency, drop a small amount of syrup into a bowl of cold water—it should form a soft ball when rolled between your fingers.

3. Combine and Flavor:

   - Once the syrup is ready, add the roasted sesame seeds to the pan. Stir quickly to coat the sesame seeds evenly with the jaggery syrup. Add the cardamom powder and ghee, and mix well.

4. Shape the Ladoos:

   - While the mixture is still warm, grease your hands with a little ghee and take small portions of the mixture to roll into bite-sized balls. Work quickly as the mixture will harden as it cools.

5. Cool and Store:

   - Place the shaped ladoos on a greased plate or parchment paper and let them cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your Til Gul Balls, a traditional and wholesome sweet treat that’s perfect for festive celebrations and everyday indulgence. With their nutty flavor, sweet richness, and cultural significance, these ladoos are sure to bring a touch of tradition and joy to your table.