Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai: For roasting the semolina and cooking the mixture.
Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
Spatula: For stirring the mixture.
Measuring cups and spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
Mortar and pestle: For crushing the cardamom (if using whole pods).
Small saucepan: For heating the milk (sweet version) or water (savory version).
Serving plates or trays: To cool and shape the semolina balls.
Sweet Semolina Balls Recipe
Step 1: Roasting the Semolina
Begin by roasting the semolina to enhance its flavor and give it a delightful nutty aroma.
Heat the ghee: Place the heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat and add the ghee.
Add the semolina: Once the ghee is hot, add the semolina to the pan.
Roast the semolina: Stir continuously to prevent burning. Roast the semolina until it turns golden brown and releases a fragrant aroma. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
Set aside: Remove the roasted semolina from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Sweet Base
Now, let’s prepare the sweet base for the semolina balls.
Heat the milk: In a small saucepan, heat the milk until it’s warm. If you’re using saffron, add the strands to the milk to infuse it with a rich color and aroma.
Combine the ingredients: Return the roasted semolina to the pan and add the warm milk. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Add the sugar: Once the semolina has absorbed the milk and thickened, add the sugar and continue to stir.
Flavor with cardamom: Crush the cardamom pods using a mortar and pestle and add the powder to the mixture.
Incorporate the nuts and raisins: Add the chopped nuts and raisins, stirring to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Shaping the Semolina Balls
With the sweet base prepared, it’s time to shape the semolina balls.
Cool the mixture: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, making it easier to handle.
Grease your hands: Lightly grease your hands with ghee to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Form the balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth, round balls.
Optional coconut coating: If you’re using desiccated coconut, roll the semolina balls in the coconut to coat them.
Step 4: Serving and Storing
Your sweet semolina balls are now ready to be enjoyed!
Serve: Arrange the semolina balls on a serving plate and garnish with extra chopped nuts if desired.
Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Sweet semolina balls can be kept at room temperature for a day or two, or refrigerated for up to a week.
ADVERTISEMENT
