Imagine a traditional Sri Lankan sweet that combines the rich, toasty flavor of sesame seeds with the deep, caramel-like sweetness of jaggery - that's Thala Guli for you! This irresistible treat is more than just a dessert; it's a cultural experience that tells a story of generations-old culinary traditions. Whether you're a food adventurer or someone looking to explore authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, these delectable little balls of goodness will captivate your senses and leave you craving more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Sri Lankan
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 250g sesame seeds
- 200g jaggery
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 1 tbsp ghee
Instructions
- Dry roast the sesame seeds in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Stir continuously to prevent burning, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Allow the roasted sesame seeds to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, grind them into a fine, slightly coarse powder using a food processor or traditional stone grinder.
- In a separate pan, break the jaggery into smaller pieces and add water. Heat the mixture on medium flame, stirring constantly until the jaggery completely dissolves and forms a smooth syrup.
- Add cardamom powder to the jaggery syrup and continue cooking until the mixture reaches a sticky, slightly thick consistency. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the jaggery syrup from heat and immediately add the ground sesame seeds. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or spatula to create a uniform, sticky mixture.
- Grease your palms with ghee to prevent sticking, and while the mixture is still warm, start shaping small round balls by rolling between your hands.
- Place the prepared Thala Guli on a greased plate or parchment paper to cool and set. The balls will become slightly firmer as they cool down.
- Store the Thala Guli in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be kept for up to a week and are perfect as a traditional Sri Lankan sweet snack.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality sesame seeds for the best flavor and aroma.
- Roast sesame seeds slowly and carefully - patience is key to preventing burning.
- When grinding sesame seeds, aim for a slightly coarse texture for optimal taste and mouthfeel.
- Keep your hands greased with ghee while shaping the balls to prevent sticking.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before shaping to make handling easier.
- If the mixture becomes too dry, add a tiny bit of warm ghee to help binding.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent hardening.
- For best results, consume within a week of preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
