Traditional Tilgul Laddu Recipe with Jaggery – Maharashtrian Makar Sankranti Special

“Makar Sankranti” in Maharashtra is incomplete without the iconic words –"Tilgul ghya, goad goad bola!"These sweet sesame-jaggery laddus, called Tilgul, are not just a festive treat but also a symbol of spreading warmth, unity, and sweetness in relationships.

These laddus are super nutritious and made with just three main ingredients – sesame (til), jaggery (gul), and ghee.

Let’s learn how to make authentic jaggery tilgul laddus at home – the traditional way.

🧾 Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
White Sesame Seeds (Til)	1 cup
Grated Jaggery (Gul)	¾ cup
Ghee	1 tbsp
Cardamom Powder (optional)	½ tsp
Crushed peanuts or dry coconut (optional)	2 tbsp

👩‍🍳 Method: Step-by-Step Tilgul Laddu Recipe

Step 1: Dry Roast Sesame Seeds

• Heat a pan on medium flame.

• Add sesame seeds and dry roast until golden and aromatic (about 3-4 mins).

• Transfer to a plate and let it cool.

  
  

Step 2: Prepare Jaggery Syrup

• In the same pan, add ghee and grated jaggery.

• Stir continuously until the jaggery melts completely and becomes bubbly.

• Check for soft-ball consistency (drop a bit in cold water – if it forms a soft ball, it's ready).

Step 3: Combine and Mix

• Quickly add roasted sesame seeds (and optional peanuts or dry coconut).

• Mix everything well so all sesame is coated with jaggery.

Step 4: Shape the Laddus

• Grease your palms with ghee.

• While the mixture is warm, take small portions and roll into laddus.

• Let them cool down completely before storing.

🍽️ Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container.

• Keeps fresh for up to 10–12 days.

• Do not refrigerate.

💡 Health Benefits

• Jaggery: Natural detox, rich in iron

• Sesame Seeds: High in calcium, zinc, healthy fats

• Winter-Perfect: Keeps body warm and boosts immunity