Andhra Style Ravva Laddu

Andhra Style Ravva Laddu, also known as Semolina Laddu or Rava Laddu, is a traditional sweet delicacy from Andhra Pradesh, a state in southern India. It is popularly made during festivals and special occasions as a festive treat.

To make Andhra Style Ravva Laddu, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup fine semolina (rava or ravva)

- 1 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)

- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut

- 1/4 cup chopped cashews and almonds

- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

- 1 tablespoon warm milk

Here's a step-by-step guide to making this delicious sweet:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan and roast the cashews and almonds until golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

2. In the same pan, add the semolina and roast it on low heat until it turns aromatic and lightly golden. Keep stirring continuously to ensure even roasting. This process may take around 10-12 minutes.

3. Once the semolina is roasted, transfer it to a bowl and let it cool for a few minutes.

4. In a separate bowl, dissolve saffron strands in warm milk and set it aside.

5. In a mixer or blender, blend the sugar into a fine powder.

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted semolina, powdered sugar, desiccated coconut, cardamom powder, and the roasted cashews and almonds. Mix well until all the ingredients are well combined.

7. Heat the remaining ghee in a small pan until it melts.

8. Gradually pour the melted ghee into the mixing bowl and mix it well with the other ingredients. Use your hands to combine everything together until the mixture holds its shape when pressed.

9. If the mixture is too dry to hold its shape, you can add a little more melted ghee.

10. Finally, add the saffron-infused milk to the mixture and give it a final mix.

11. Allow the mixture to cool down slightly, but make sure it is still warm so that you can shape the laddus easily.

12. Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a round laddu by gently pressing and rolling it between your palms.

13. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture to make more laddus.

14. Let the laddus cool down completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Sure, here are a few additional details about Andhra Style Ravva Laddu:

- Ravva Laddu is a popular sweet in Andhra Pradesh and is often prepared during festivals like Diwali, Sankranti, and even weddings.

- The addition of desiccated coconut adds a subtle flavor and enhances the texture of the laddus.

- You can also add other dry fruits like pistachios, raisins, or grated coconut for additional flavors and crunch.

- The use of ghee not only adds richness to the laddus but also helps in binding the ingredients together.

- If you prefer a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of ghee and sugar used. However, note that it may affect the texture and overall taste of the laddus.

- Saffron strands, when added, lend any raw taste in the laddus.

- These laddus have a relatively longer shelf life and can be stored in an airtight container for a week or two at room temperature.

- You can also make a larger batch and share them with friends and family as a sweet gesture.

Andhra Style Ravva Laddu is a delightful sweet treat that is loved by people of all ages. Its nutty flavor, aromatic cardamom, and the sweetness of sugar make it a perfect indulgence. So, next time you are celebrating a festival or craving something sweet, try making these laddus and enjoy the authentic flavors of Andhra Pradesh.