Winter Special: How to Make Bengali Coconut Laddoo with Jaggery (Narkel Naru)
Narkel Naru is a beloved Bengali sweet treat that people enjoy during the winter months. This traditional delicacy combines fresh coconut with rich jaggery to create a delightful flavor. The aroma of melted jaggery mixed with tender coconut pulp makes it a favorite for all ages. You can easily prepare this sweet at home with a few simple steps.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 2 cups of fresh coconut
- 3/4 cup of jaggery
- 2 to 4 tablespoons of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of green cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons of ghee
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Start by breaking the coconut and grating it finely. Use a coconut grater for best results.
Step 2: Heat a pan on a low flame. Add ghee and the grated coconut. Cook this mixture for about three to five minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Take another pan and place it on low heat. Add jaggery and water to it. Melt the jaggery slowly until it becomes a smooth syrup.
Step 4: Pour the melted jaggery into the coconut mixture. Mix everything well. Continue cooking on low heat until the mixture thickens. It should start leaving the sides of the pan.
Step 5: Add the green cardamom powder to the mixture. You can also add a little more ghee if needed for extra richness.
Step 6: While the mixture is still warm, grease your palms with some ghee. Take small portions and shape them into round laddoos.
Step 7: Allow the laddoos to cool down completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy these homemade sweets with family and friends.
This recipe offers a simple way to bring traditional Bengali flavors into your kitchen. The combination of coconut and jaggery not only tastes delicious but also provides warmth during the cold season. Many households in Bengal prepare Narkel Naru as a special winter treat, often sharing it during festivals and gatherings.
Making these laddoos at home ensures you use fresh ingredients without any preservatives. The process is straightforward and requires minimal cooking time. You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of jaggery according to your preference.
Remember to use fresh coconut for the best texture and flavor. Tender coconut works particularly well in this recipe. The ghee adds a rich aroma and helps in binding the mixture together. Cardamom powder enhances the overall taste with its subtle fragrance.
Narkel Naru is not just a sweet; it represents a cultural tradition passed down through generations. Preparing it at home allows you to connect with this heritage while enjoying a tasty snack. Serve these laddoos as a dessert or as a special treat during tea time.
