Semolina balls

1. Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai: For roasting the semolina and cooking the mixture.
2. Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
3. Spatula: For stirring the mixture.
4. Measuring cups and spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
5. Mortar and pestle: For crushing the cardamom (if using whole pods).
6. Small saucepan: For heating the milk (sweet version) or water (savory version).
7. 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.

1. Heat the ghee: Place the heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat and add the ghee.
2. Add the semolina: Once the ghee is hot, add the semolina to the pan.
3. 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.
4. 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.

1. 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.
2. Combine the ingredients: Return the roasted semolina to the pan and add the warm milk. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Add the sugar: Once the semolina has absorbed the milk and thickened, add the sugar and continue to stir.
4. Flavor with cardamom: Crush the cardamom pods using a mortar and pestle and add the powder to the mixture.
5. 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.

1. Cool the mixture: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, making it easier to handle.
2. Grease your hands: Lightly grease your hands with ghee to prevent the mixture from sticking.
3. Form the balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth, round balls.
4. 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!

1. Serve: Arrange the semolina balls on a serving plate and garnish with extra chopped nuts if desired.
2. 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.

Savory Semolina Balls Recipe