Laddu lovers, Rejoice! Yes, they are as good as they look! With zero added sugar or butter, these little pistachio-apricot balls pack a nutritional punch! Loaded with fibre and protein, these laddus are an ideal pick-me-up snack choice.
Laddus – Let’s celebrate!
Laddus, in the South Asian culture are simply balls of S.W.E.E.T.N.E.S.S. They make an appearance at nearly all celebratory events in our culture. You’ll find them at weddings, birthdays, graduations, and religious festivals. The party list does goes on!
Laddus are made with different types of flours, and often laden with sugar and ghee. This healthier spin on a traditional recipe is, let’s just say better for you! These little pistachio and apricot laddus are the perfect sweet and crunchy treat. Talk about delicious! What’s even better is that they are such a breeze to whip up; with only 3 ingredients and done in 5 minutes! Blend the ingredients in a food processor, roll into balls, coat with chopped pistachios, and you’re in heaven. Plus they’re vegan, Paleo, and gluten- and dairy-free. That pretty much checks everyone on the list!
Not your average apricot!
I love this apricot and pistachio combo, which is a change from using dates. You may be wondering why is the colour of these laddus dark brown then? Well, let me tell you. These are not just ordinary dried apricots. These are Malatya apricots and they taste heavenly! Malatya, in Turkey is apparantly one of the main exporters of dried apricots in the world. Their flavor is subtle, less acidic and full of aroma. I got mine from Costco.
With the festival of Navratri having commenced this weekend, I wanted to share a sweet delight to mark this special time for my Hindu friends around the world.
Navratri – 9 nights
These 9 nights and 10 days are spent in worship, fasting, meditation, chants, and other spiritual practices. An opportunity to focus on the self, reflect inwardly, nurture and rejuvenate the soul. It is also a time to celebrate with colors, special traditions, music, and dance.
Fasting is also an important aspect during Navratri. It symbolizes cleansing and purification of the body and mind. Certain foods are prohibited and only foods regarded to be ‘fasting foods’ are allowed to be consumed during this 10-day festival.
The ingredients in these pistachio and apricot laddus fit the fasting food rules for Navratri. Pistachios, dried apricots and coconut oil come together to create a simple, delicious and energizing snack to keep you feeling fuller for longer! Plus they are done in a flash. These can be stored in the fridge for 2 weeks and can be freezed for longer.
All the taste of laddus, without the ghee, added sugar (or the cooking). Fast and filling! Are you sold?
To those celebrating, happy Navratri!
So, kuch kuch hota hai? If you try this recipe, would love to hear from you! Leave a comment, rate it, or share a photo and hashtag with #desiliciousrd on Instagram and twitter! Can’t wait to see your photos.
Desi~liciously Yours,
5 minute Pistachio-Apricot Laddus (Balls)
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup pistachios shelled
- 2/3 cup dried Malatya apricots you can use regular apricots as well
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Add 1 cup of pistachios, 2/3 cup apricots and 3 tbsp coconut oil to a food processor or high speed blender
- Process on high for 3 minutes, until mixture comes together. I use my vitamix and it is done in 2-3 minutes
- Meanwhile, chop the remaining 1/4 cup pistachios
- Form the pistachio-apricot mixture into 12 balls
- Roll in chopped pistachios
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