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Homemade Traditional Coconut Ladoos- Make the juiciest ladoos with this recipe

In Indian tradition, Coconut ladoos or Nariyal ladoos are offered to God or deities during Hindu festivals. Eating homemade sweets that are traditionally prepared, especially during festivals, is a way to bring families together. Sweets prepared at home in the traditional way are wholesome and nourishing that are not going to affect your health or weight.

Unlike commercial sweets, homemade sweets give you a complete control over what you are going to add. Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar is of the belief that, if you go completely off sugar, then it can increase cravings and make you switch to artificial sweeteners-which come with their share of side effects and health risks.

Thus you can have homemade sweets prepared with natural and quality ingredients, used in right quantity. Portion control and moderation is the key to everything.

Coconut ladoos are traditional sweet balls made primarily with coconut and a sweetener like sugar and jaggery. They are flavoured with cardamom. Some prefer adding nuts like cashews and almonds to it as well. These are traditionally made with milk, ghee and fresh coconut. However, there are other variations that use condensed milk or milk powder to reduce the cooking time and fresh coconut is replaced with store-bought desiccated coconut.  

In this recipe, we will be making traditional coconut ladoos with fresh coconut, unprocessed sugar, milk and ghee.

They come out absolutely delicious, juicy and soft and they are so easy to make. These ladoos taste best with freshly prepared desiccated coconut at home instead of store-bought desiccated coconut. Preparing desiccated coconut at home is super easy and will hardly take you 10 minutes to prepare it.

Recipe

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes 
Serving: 10 ladoos

Ingredients: cup measurements 250 ml

  1. Homemade Desiccated Coconut: 2 cups + 2 tbsps (refer below)
  2. Full cream milk: 1 1/4th cup
  3. Sugar: 1/2 cup
  4. Cardamom powder: 1/4th tsp
  5. Nuts (optional, I didn’t add any)
  6. Kesar strands for garnishing
  7. Ghee: 2 tbsps

Method

  • Heat a heavy bottom wok. Put ghee and coconut in it and roast for a minute. Keep stirring continuously on lowest flame. 
  • Now add milk and sugar. Mix well. The mixture at this point will be watery. Keep stirring and cook on lowest flame till milk completely evaporates. It’ll take roughly 25 minutes. 
  • Once the mixture thickens and gets a crumbly texture, add cardamom powder and chopped nuts if using. Mix well. 
  • Allow it to cool for couple of minutes. Now shape them into small balls. 
  • Put remaining desiccated coconut on a plate. Roll the laddoo over it till it coats well. 
  • Garnish it with kesar strands. 
  • Refrigerate it for atleast an hour or overnight to set.

How to make desiccated coconut at home with fresh coconut

  1. Peel the brown husk from the coconut. Either grate or finely chop it and shred it in a blender. Heat a heavy bottom wok. Put the grated/shredded coconut in it and roast on lowest flame, stirring continuously till moisture from coconut evaporates. It’ll take you anywhere between 7 to 10 minutes. 
  2. It’s done when you will feel that it has really gone light while stirring and separates easily from each other.

Notes:

  1. Sweetener: You can use a sweetener of your choice. If you can’t find raw unprocessed sugar, you can make this with jaggery as well.
  2. Flavour: Traditionally cardamom powder is used to flavour coconut ladoos. However, if you don’t want to add it, you can skip it as well. In winter, you can flavour it be adding dry ginger powder or nutmeg.
  3. Choosing Coconut: Though this recipe tastes best with fresh desiccated coconut but if you can’t find fresh coconut, you can use store-bought desiccated coconut. Make sure the desiccated coconut is raw and not steamed or frozen.
  4. Vegan Version: For vegan version skip, ghee and milk and instead add coconut oil and coconut milk to this recipe.
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Toast to History: Cocktails Inspired by the American Independence Struggle!

person hanging slice of lemon on cocktail glass

Introduction: As we commemorate American Independence Day, let’s transport ourselves back in time and savor the flavors that tell the story of the nation’s struggle for freedom. With a deep dive into historical texts, recipe books, and notable events, we present to you a collection of cocktails that pay homage to pivotal moments, influential figures, and the indomitable spirit of the American independence struggle. Raise your glass high and embark on a captivating journey through history with these meticulously researched libations. Let’s celebrate the legacy of those who fought for liberty and toast to the birth of a nation! 🍹🔔🗽

🔹 The Sons of Liberty Sazerac 🥃🔥🎩 Embodied in this cocktail is the fiery spirit of the Sons of Liberty, a secret society that played a significant role in the American Revolution.

  • Rinsed with rebellion: Begin by rinsing an Old Fashioned glass with absinthe, a nod to the clandestine nature of their activities.
  • A revolutionary mix: In a separate mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, a dash of Peychaud’s bitters, a sugar cube, and a touch of water.
  • Stirred for change: Stir well and strain into the prepared glass.
  • Enlightened garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist, representing the enlightenment that fueled the revolutionary cause.

🔹 The Continental Congress Cobbler 🍷🦅🍑 Pay tribute to the Continental Congress, the assembly that united the colonies in the pursuit of independence, with the Continental Congress Cobbler.

  • A taste of unity: Muddle fresh peaches and a sprinkle of sugar in a shaker.
  • The flavor of diplomacy: Add a generous pour of Madeira wine, symbolizing the diplomatic ties and shared interests of the colonies.
  • Shaken with camaraderie: Shake well and strain into a wine glass filled with crushed ice.
  • Garnished for unity: Garnish with a fresh peach slice and a miniature American flag to evoke the unity and camaraderie that fueled the revolutionary spirit.

🔹 The Midnight Ride Martini 🍸🌕🐴 Raise a glass to the legendary ride of Paul Revere with the Midnight Ride Martini.

  • A ride through history: In a shaker, combine gin, dry vermouth, and a splash of lemon juice.
  • Shake for adventure: Shake vigorously with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.
  • Moonlit garnish: Garnish with a twist of lemon peel, representing the moonlit night of Revere’s historic journey.

🔹 The Battle of Yorktown Punch 🍹⚔️🌺 Celebrate the turning point in the American Revolution with the Battle of Yorktown Punch.

  • A victorious blend: In a punch bowl, combine dark rum, spiced apple cider, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a hint of cinnamon syrup.
  • Symbolic garnish: Float lemon and apple slices on top as a vibrant garnish.
  • Sip of triumph: The flavors of rum and spiced cider come together to evoke the warmth and camaraderie felt after the victorious battle.

🔹 The Declaration Daiquiri 🍹📜🍓 Raise a glass to the monumental moment when the Declaration of Independence was signed with the Declaration Daiquiri.

  • Revolutionary flavors: In a shaker, muddle fresh strawberries and a squeeze of lime juice.
  • Independence in a glass: Add white rum, a splash of simple syrup, and ice.
  • Shake for freedom: Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Red, white, and blue garnish: Garnish with a strawberry on the rim, symbolizing the red, white, and blue of the American flag.

🎇✨🇺🇸 These historically-inspired cocktails offer a taste of the American independence struggle, allowing us to honor the significant events, remarkable individuals, and enduring spirit of that era. As you celebrate Independence Day, savor each sip, and let these libations serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today. Cheers to the heroes who shaped history and to the eternal flame of liberty! 🗽🎉🎆

Click on the link below to join our Eatlovers United Facebook group and become part of a community that celebrates both the art of mixology and the richness of history: 👉 Join Eatlovers United on Facebook!

We can’t wait to connect with you, share our favorite cocktail recipes, and engage in lively discussions that honor the spirit of independence. Let’s raise our glasses high and toast to the remarkable journey that shaped our nation!

Cheers to freedom, community, and the joy of savoring life’s delicious moments! 🥂🗽🍹🎉

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Ignite the Night: 5 Explosive Keto Mocktails to Spark up Your Independence Day Bash!

taking photo of cocktails

Greetings, dear friends and enthusiasts of the ketogenic lifestyle! 👋

As we approach the 4th of July, a wave of excitement and anticipation engulfs us all. Independence Day is synonymous with a sense of unity, joy, a sky ablaze with spectacular fireworks, and the inevitable indulgence in mouth-watering food and refreshing drinks. As we bask in the freedom and celebrations, the challenge of maintaining our nutritional balance, especially for us committed to the keto lifestyle, is often a difficult one.

To ensure that you don’t have to compromise on either the fun or your diet, we have curated a spectacular lineup of Keto-friendly mocktails! These are not just extraordinarily flavorful, but they are also perfectly suited for your keto dietary regimen. Made with low-carb fruits, natural ingredients, and keto-friendly sugar substitutes like Stevia and Erythritol, these mocktails are ready to dazzle at your Independence Day bash.

1. The Star-Spangled Cooler 🍹

Ingredients:

  • Fresh strawberries and blueberries
  • Chilled sparkling water
  • A keto-approved sweetener like Stevia or Erythritol
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint or basil for garnish (optional)

Method: Start by carefully washing your berries and patting them dry. Then, in a glass pitcher, combine these fresh strawberries and blueberries. Add your sweetener of choice. Fill the pitcher with sparkling water, stirring gently to ensure the sweetener is well-dissolved. Add a handful of ice cubes and stir again.

Serving: Pour into tall glasses, ensuring each serving has a good mix of berries. If desired, garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint or basil. This mocktail is a perfect accompaniment to grilled keto-friendly dishes, especially proteins like sausages or burgers.

2. The Freedom Fizz 🍾

Ingredients:

  • Sparkling water
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Keto-approved sweetener
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon peel for garnish (optional)

Method: Begin by squeezing the juice out of fresh lemons. In a large pitcher, mix the lemon juice and your chosen sweetener until it’s well-dissolved. Add sparkling water, stirring gently. Include ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.

Serving: Pour this delightful mocktail into champagne flutes for an elegant touch. Consider garnishing with a twist of lemon peel for a vibrant pop of color. This drink pairs wonderfully with light, summery dishes, such as a fresh salad or a platter of assorted cheese.

3. The Liberty Lemonade 🥂

Ingredients:

  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Sparkling water
  • Keto-approved sweetener
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Method: Firstly, squeeze fresh lemons for the juice. In a pitcher, mix the fresh lemon juice and your preferred keto-friendly sweetener until the sweetener is completely dissolved. Pour in the sparkling water and stir gently. Add in ice cubes to chill.

Serving: Serve this classic summer mocktail in mason jars for a rustic touch, garnishing with fresh mint leaves if desired. The Liberty Lemonade goes well with dishes like grilled chicken skewers or zucchini noodles.

4. The Patriot’s Punch 🍇

Ingredients:

  • Fresh lime juice
  • Sparkling water
  • Fresh cranberries
  • Keto-approved sweetener
  • Ice cubes

Method: Start by squeezing fresh limes for their juice. In a large punch bowl, mix the fresh lime juice, cranberries, and your chosen keto sweetener until the sweetener is well-dissolved. Add sparkling water and stir gently. Include ice cubes for a refreshing chill.

Serving: Serve this vibrant mocktail in individual glasses, ensuring each has a few cranberries. The Patriot’s Punch is a refreshing counterpoint to spicy BBQ dishes, providing a refreshing balance to the heat.

5. The Sparkling Independence 🎇

Ingredients:

  • Fresh lime juice
  • Keto-approved sweetener
  • Sparkling water
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves or lime slice for garnish (optional)

Method: Begin by squeezing fresh limes for the juice. In a pitcher, mix the lime juice and your preferred sweetener until the sweetener is completely dissolved. Add the sparkling water and stir gently. Include ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.

Serving: Serve this refreshing mocktail in tall highball glasses, garnishing with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lime if you wish. The Sparkling Independence pairs wonderfully with richer, fatty dishes, like a buttery slab of salmon or a hearty steak.

Each of these mocktails can bring a new layer of flavor and refreshment to your Independence Day spread. The essence of a great mocktail lies in your personal touch, so don’t hesitate to adjust and experiment with these recipes.

For more fantastic keto ideas and to share your own creations, join our vibrant community on our Facebook group, EatLo.

This 4th of July, let’s celebrate our freedom, unity, and journey towards healthier choices. Here’s to an unforgettable celebration, filled with laughter, love, and refreshing keto mocktails! 🥂🎆

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Celebrate Father’s Day Like Never Before: 5 Keto Mocktails Dad Will Absolutely Love!

Hello everyone, 👋

Father’s Day is just around the corner! This special day is all about celebrating dads and showing them how much we care. And what better way to toast to their greatness than with some delicious and healthy Keto-friendly mocktails? Today, we’re exploring 5 fantastic Keto mocktails that not only taste phenomenal, but also align with the keto lifestyle. So, this Father’s Day, let’s raise a glass to Dad’s health and happiness, and let him indulge without a second thought!

1. Keto Ginger Lime Cooler 🍹

Kick off the celebration with our invigorating Keto Ginger Lime Cooler. Combining the tang of fresh limes, the spice of ginger, and the sweetness of your preferred keto-friendly sweetener, this mocktail makes for an exhilarating and refreshing drink. Pair it with grilled meats or hearty salads to add a touch of summer to your Father’s Day feast.

2. Cherry Zest Splash 🍒

Next up is the Cherry Zest Splash, a drink that is as exciting as it sounds! With the juiciness of fresh cherries, a twist of lime, and the fizz of soda water, this mocktail delivers a party in a glass. Its vibrant color and tantalizing taste make it a hit at any gathering. Don’t forget to add a handful of ice cubes and garnish with a few fresh cherries on top!

3. Green Goodness Mocktail 🥒

Our Green Goodness Mocktail is a healthy twist on the classic mojito. This mocktail packs in fresh cucumbers, zesty lime juice, crisp mint leaves, and a keto-friendly sweetener to make a super refreshing, guilt-free drink. Serve it in a highball glass and top it with a sprig of mint to elevate the aesthetics.

4. Blueberry Lavender Delight 🫐

Give dad a taste of relaxation with the Blueberry Lavender Delight. Fresh blueberries, the essence of lavender, a dash of lemon, and your preferred sugar substitute make this drink a soothing and flavorful treat. Pair this elegant mocktail with a rich, creamy dessert for the ultimate Father’s Day indulgence.

5. Watermelon Basil Cooler 🍉

Lastly, we have the Watermelon Basil Cooler, a drink that tastes like summer in a glass! This mocktail blends sweet, juicy watermelons with fresh basil leaves, lime juice, and a keto-friendly sweetener. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and freshness, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Serve it in a tall glass with a slice of watermelon for the garnish.

This Father’s Day, let’s go beyond the traditional gifts and create memories over these fantastic mocktails. Remember, the best part of cooking is experimentation, so feel free to put your unique spin on these recipes. And when you do, don’t forget to share your creations with our community. Join our Facebook group at EatLo to connect with fellow food enthusiasts, share your culinary adventures, and get access to more fantastic recipes. Let’s create and celebrate together! 🍽️

Until next time, cheers to all the amazing dads out there, and here’s to a Father’s Day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable flavors! 🥂

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Blow Your Guests Away: 5 Unbelievable Keto Mocktails for the Perfect 4th of July

taking photo of cocktails

🎉🍹 Get ready to blow your guests away with these unbelievable keto mocktails that will take your 4th of July celebration to new heights! As fireworks light up the sky and patriotism fills the air, it’s time to impress your friends and family with refreshing and flavorful mocktails that are not only low-carb but also unbelievably delicious. These mocktails will be the star of your Independence Day party, leaving everyone in awe of your creative mixology skills. So, let’s dive into these sensational mocktail recipes and make your 4th of July celebration truly unforgettable! 🎇🥳

1. Keto Strawberry Lemonade 🍓🍋

This isn’t your average lemonade; our Keto Strawberry Lemonade is a fresh, summer-in-a-glass creation. Made with ripe strawberries and zesty lemons, sweetened with your preferred keto-friendly sweetener, it’s a vibrant, refreshing beverage that pairs perfectly with a barbecue. Enjoy this lemonade in a mason jar with a stripey straw for an authentic touch and garnish with a sprig of mint.

2. Blueberry Coconut Splash 🫐🥥

Take a flavor vacation with our Blueberry Coconut Splash! This mocktail elegantly combines the flavors of fresh blueberries, creamy coconut milk, and a dash of lime. It’s a cool, refreshing drink that also boasts antioxidant benefits. Serve this mocktail in a tall glass with a generous topping of crushed ice, a lime wheel, and a handful of fresh blueberries.

3. Raspberry Lime Fizz 🍹

Experience effervescent joy with the Raspberry Lime Fizz. This mocktail is a blend of fresh raspberries, tangy lime juice, sparkling water, and a sugar substitute to create a fizzy, zesty delight that instantly cools you down. Ideal for a mid-day refresher, this bubbly delight goes great with light salads or grilled vegetables. Add a handful of fresh raspberries on top for a visually appealing and delicious garnish.

4. Peachy Green Keto Mocktail 🍑

Meet our Peachy Green Keto Mocktail, a true sweet indulgence without the guilt. Made with fresh peach puree, lime juice, cucumber slices, and a sugar substitute, this drink is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthy way. This mocktail pairs beautifully with spicy dishes, as its sweetness and freshness help to balance out the heat. Pour into a fancy cocktail glass and garnish with a slice of peach or cucumber for a touch of elegance.

5. Patriotic Punch 🇺🇸

Last but not least, get in the Independence Day spirit with our visually stunning Patriotic Punch. This red, white, and blue themed mocktail is made with sugar-free berry flavored water, a dash of cream for the white layer, and fresh blueberries. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! Serve this in a clear glass to show off the beautiful layers, and pair with traditional 4th of July treats like grilled burgers and hot dogs.

Experimentation is the key to great cooking, so don’t hesitate to put your unique spin on these recipes. And when you do, don’t forget to share your creations with our community. Join our Facebook group at EatLo to connect with fellow food enthusiasts, share your culinary adventures, and get access to more fantastic recipes. Let’s inspire and be inspired. 🍽️ Until next time, cheers to good health and unforgettable celebrations! 🥂