Ellu Urundai | Sesame Seeds Jaggery Ladoo

Ellu Urundai, also known as Sesame Ladoo, is a delicious and nutritious traditional Indian sweet. This delectable treat holds a significant place in Indian cuisine and culture, cherished for its rich flavors and auspicious associations. Made from sesame seeds, jaggery (unrefined sugar), and other ingredients, Ellu Urundai is not only a delightful indulgence but also offers numerous health benefits.They are popularly enjoyed as a snack or dessert in South Indian cuisine.

The origins of Ellu Urundai can be traced back to ancient times in India. Sesame seeds, the main ingredient of this sweet, have been cultivated in the region for thousands of years. In traditional Indian culture, sesame seeds hold great significance and are considered auspicious. It is believed that consuming sesame seeds and jaggery in the form of Ellu Urundai brings good health and prosperity.

Ellu Urundai has long been a cherished part of traditional Indian cuisine. It is often prepared during festive occasions, religious ceremonies like Vinayagar Chaturthi , and family gatherings. 

In certain cultural traditions, Ellu Urundai carries symbolic meaning. It is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. During festivals like Makar Sankranti and Pongal, Ellu Urundai is offered to deities as a gesture of gratitude and devotion. It is also exchanged among friends and family as a token of love and gratitude.

To make Ellu Urundai, you will need sesame seeds, jaggery, cardamom powder, and a small amount of ghee (clarified butter). These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful treat that is both nutritious and satisfying.

I have posted here a very simple procedure to make this ellu urundai unlike the traditional method which is slightly laborious and bit tough for beginners.

For making this easy variation of sesame ladoo you have to first dry roast the sesame seeds in medium heat until it pops and release a nutty aroma . Then we have to grind it along with jaggery  and cardamom powder to slightly coarse mixture.Finally we have shape them into bite sized balls while still warm, that’s it a healthy delicious ellu urundai is ready .Once cooled completely store in airtight container.

Ellu Urundai is not just a tasty treat; it also offers several health benefits. Sesame seeds are a rich source of protein, calcium, iron, and healthy fats. Jaggery, being an unrefined sugar, retains more nutrients compared to refined sugar. It contains vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.

The combination of sesame seeds and jaggery in Ellu Urundai provides energy, aids in digestion, and helps in maintaining overall well-being. Sesame seeds are known for their heart-healthy properties and may help lower cholesterol levels. Jaggery is considered a healthier alternative to refined sugar and is believed to boost immunity.

Ellu Urundai is not only delightful to eat but also carries deep cultural and symbolic significance. Its round shape represents unity, wholeness, and positivity. The combination of sesame seeds and jaggery symbolizes the harmony of flavors and the coming together of different elements.

During festivities and special occasions, Ellu Urundai is shared and exchanged among family, friends, and neighbors as a gesture of goodwill and camaraderie. It acts as a sweet reminder of the joyous moments shared and the bonds strengthened during these events.

Ingredients 

Sesame seeds (black or white) -1 cup

Powdered jaggery -1/2-3/4 cup

Cardamom powder-1/4 Tsp

Salt /உப்பு- a pinch ( optional)

Ghee as required ( optional)

Recipe video

Method 

👉Dry roast the sesame seeds in medium flame for 2-4 minutes until it pops and releases nutty aroma .

👉Transfer to mixie jar and  grind along with jaggery, cardamom powder and pinch of salt.

👉Make bite sized balls while still warm , use slightly warm ghee if required to make ladoos.

👉Cool completely and store in airtight container.

Preparation time 30 mins

Yield - approximately 18-20 ladoos