by Magas, also known as Magaj or Magas na Ladoo, is a traditional Gujarati sweet made from coarse gram flour (besan), ghee, and sugar, often enjoyed during festivals like Diwali. This rich, fudgy treat has a melt-in-the-mouth texture and a nutty flavor, making it a beloved indulgence in Gujarati households. Whether you’re preparing for a celebration or craving a sweet delight, this detailed Magas recipe will guide you to craft this classic at home. Let’s stir up some festive sweetness!
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
(Includes gathering ingredients)
Cook Time
- 30 minutes
(Cooking and setting the magas)
Total Time
- 40 minutes
(A quick and decadent sweet!)
Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)
This recipe makes approximately 12-15 pieces or ladoos (serves 6-8 people). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:
- Calories: 2200 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 150g
- Saturated Fat: 80g (from ghee)
- Unsaturated Fat: 70g
- Carbohydrates: 180g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 120g (from sugar)
- Sodium: 200mg (minimal, from salt if used)
- Cholesterol: 300mg (from ghee)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 40% of Daily Value (DV) (from ghee)
- Iron: 20% of DV
- Magnesium: 25% of DV
Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
Ingredients
For the Magas:
- 1 cup coarse besan (gram flour) – also called ladoo besan or magas besan
- 3/4 cup ghee – melted, for richness
- 1 cup sugar – powdered or granulated
- 1/2 cup water – for sugar syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder – for aroma
- 2 tablespoons milk – to bind the besan
- 1 tablespoon slivered almonds – optional, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon slivered pistachios – optional, for garnish
Equipment Needed:
- Heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Plate or tray (greased)
- Small saucepan for syrup
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Besan
- Heat 3/4 cup ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over low-medium heat until melted.
- Add 1 cup coarse besan and stir continuously to combine with the ghee. Roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until the besan turns aromatic and golden brown. The mixture should release a nutty fragrance and become slightly pasty.
- Add 2 tablespoons milk and stir quickly – the mixture will bubble slightly and loosen up. Continue roasting for another 2-3 minutes until fully blended. Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a one-thread consistency. (Test by pressing a drop between your fingers – it should form a single thread.)
- Add 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder, stir, and turn off the heat. Keep the syrup warm.
Step 3: Combine and Set
- Pour the warm sugar syrup into the roasted besan mixture gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Mix well until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan (about 2-3 minutes over low heat if needed). It should have a fudgy, dough-like consistency.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula to about 1-inch thickness.
Step 4: Garnish and Cut
- While still warm, sprinkle 1 tablespoon slivered almonds and 1 tablespoon slivered pistachios evenly over the top, pressing lightly to embed them.
- Let it cool for 10-15 minutes until set but not fully hardened. Cut into squares, diamonds, or roll into ladoos (balls) while still pliable.
- Allow it to cool completely at room temperature to firm up.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve at room temperature as a festive sweet or dessert.
- Store in an airtight container – magas stays fresh for up to 2-3 weeks!
Benefits of Magas
Magas is a rich sweet with some nutritional perks! Here’s why it’s a delightful indulgence:
- Protein Source: Gram flour provides plant-based protein for energy.
- Healthy Fats: Ghee offers beneficial fats and a dose of vitamin A.
- Energy Boost: Sugar and ghee deliver quick energy for festive stamina.
- Fiber Content: Besan adds a touch of dietary fiber for digestion.
- Long Shelf Life: Perfect for making ahead and sharing during celebrations.
- Festive Comfort: A traditional treat that warms the heart!
Note: Due to its high fat and sugar content, enjoy magas in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
