Vegan Bajra Ladoo with Dates (No Oil, No Ghee)
Looking for a guilt-free, nourishing sweet treat this winter? These Bajra (Pearl Millet) Ladoos are made with just three main ingredients — bajra, nuts and dates — and require no oil or ghee at all. Soft, rich, and full of earthy flavor, they are perfect for anyone seeking a healthy vegan and gluten-free sweet option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Bajra pearl millet flour
- 15-18 soft seedless dates finely chopped or blended into a paste
- 4 tbsp finely chopped almonds or walnuts
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or flaxseeds optional for crunch
- ¼ tsp cardamom powder
- 2-3 tbsp warm water only if needed for binding
Instructions
Roast the bajra flour
- Heat a thick-bottomed kadhai on low flame.
- Add bajra flour and dry roast for 8–10 minutes, stirring continuously until it turns aromatic and slightly darker in color.
- Make sure it doesn’t burn — slow roasting is key to achieving the perfect flavor.
Prepare the date mixture
- Add dates in a blender with little water in it, blend it to get paste.
- Now in a pan add mixture and cook it, mix well to form a sticky mixture.
Combine everything
- Add the date mixture to the roasted bajra flour.
- Add cardamom powder, nuts, and seeds.
- Mix thoroughly using a spatula.
- When it’s cool enough to handle, knead lightly with your hands.
- If the mixture feels too dry, sprinkle 1–2 teaspoons of warm water just to help bind it.
Shape the ladoos
- Take small portions of the warm mixture and roll into round ladoos using your palms.
- Press gently to make firm balls — the dates will naturally bind them together.
Cool and store
- Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- They stay good for 7–8 days at room temperature and even longer if refrigerated.
Notes
Health Benefits
- Iron-rich: Bajra help improve hemoglobin levels.
- Energy booster: Dates provide natural sweetness and quick energy.
- Good for digestion: High in fiber, gluten-free, and easy on the stomach.
- Perfect for winters: Keeps your body warm and nourished.