Narkel Nadu/ Coconut Ladoo

Narkel Nadu or Coconut Ladoo don't need any introduction in Bengali households. But for the people who are wondering what it is then let me introduce you to this. Narkel Nadu or Coconut Ladoo is a sweet dish from West Bengal which are made during the festivals specially during the Durga Puja and Lokkhi Pujo/ Lakhmi Pujo. 

The Nadu or Ladoo are of two kinds "Gure'r Nadu" made with Jaggery and are deep brown in color and "Chini'r Nadu" made with Sugar and are pristine white in color. My personal liking is the Chini'r Nadu (the one made with Sugar) and that is what I am sharing with you all.

As the name suggests it is made up of Coconut, Whole Milk (you can also use Evaporated Milk to reduce the time and effort), Sugar and Cardamom to add some flavor to the Nadu (Ladoo).

Ingredients:

1. Grated Coconut or Shredded Coconut : 4 cups

2. Sugar : 2 cups

3. Whole Milk : 3 cups (If you are using Evaporated Milk: 2 cups)

4. Cardamom (crushed) : 5-6

Method:

1. In a heavy bottomed pan mix the grated coconut and sugar thoroughly with your hands.

2. Place the pan on low heat for about 4-5 mins. The sugar will melt and gets mixed with the coconut. Stir the mixture with a wooden spatula as it tends to stick to the pan.

3. Now add the whole milk (or evaporated milk) to the coconut and sugar mixture. After a minute or so the mixture will start bubbling. To prevent it from sticking to the bottom stir the mixture continuously.

4. Keep stirring till the milk gets almost dry and the mixture will leave the sides of the pan. At this point the mixture will slightly change its color. In order to test it make a small ball from the mixture (be careful as the coconut mix will be very hot), if it holds the shape then the mixture is done.

5. Turn off the heat and add the crushed cardamoms. Give it a good mix and wait until the coconut mixture cools down.

6. Make small balls by rolling the mixture within your palms and place it on a clean plate.

7. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate it if you want the Nadu/ Ladoo to keep for several days.