Bengali Coconut Laddu or Narkel Naru!

Bengali Coconut laddu or Narkel Naru is a popular traditional sweet made with grated coconut and jaggery or sugar. It's especially enjoyed during festivals like Puja specially Lakshmi Puja.

Narkel Naru holds a special place in the hearts of Bengalis, especially from childhood days. For those who grew up in Bengal or in Bengali households, Narkel Naru is more than just a sweet treat—it is a symbol of warmth, festivity, and nostalgia. It reminds me of my childhood days!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated fresh coconut (you can use packed frozen grated coconut or desiccated coconut )

• 1 cup jaggery (or sugar, but jaggery gives a more authentic flavor)

• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)

• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder (optional, for flavor)

• 2-3 tablespoons water (if using jaggery)

Instructions:

1. Grate the Coconut:

   • Grate the fresh coconut finely and set aside. If using Frozen or desiccated coconut, lightly toast it for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.

     
     

2. Prepare Jaggery Syrup (if using jaggery):

   • In a pan, melt the jaggery with 2-3 tablespoons of water on low heat. Stir frequently to dissolve the jaggery completely and make a smooth jaggery syrup.

   
   

3. Cook the Mixture:

   • Add the grated coconut to the jaggery syrup (or sugar, if using that instead) in the pan. Stir continuously to combine the coconut and jaggery.

   • Cook the mixture on medium heat until it thickens and starts coming together, about 10-15 minutes. The jaggery should blend well with the coconut, and the mixture should become sticky.

   • Add cardamom powder for extra flavor.

     
     

4. Shape the Naru:

   • Once the mixture starts to leave the sides of the pan and becomes slightly dry but still sticky, remove it from the heat.

   • Let the mixture cool for few minutes until it's safe to handle.

   • Grease your palms with ghee, and start shaping small balls (naru) from the warm mixture. Press firmly to shape them.

Cool and Store:

• Allow the Narkel Naru to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can last for weeks .

Enjoy your Bengali Coconut Naru with a cup of tea or during festive celebrations!