Aliv (Halim / Garden Cress Seeds) Ladoo
Aliv seeds, also known as Halim seeds in Hindi and Garden Cress Seeds in English, are one of the most powerful traditional superfoods used in Indian kitchens—especially in Maharashtra. These tiny seeds are loaded with iron, calcium, protein, fiber, folic acid, and vitamins A & E, making them excellent for women’s health, post-pregnancy recovery, and overall immunity.
Traditionally prepared during winter and especially for lactating mothers, Aliv Laddoos are known to:
- Boost hemoglobin levels
- Improve fertility
- Reduce acne and hair fall
- Support hormonal balance
- Promote weight management
- Strengthen immunity and even help in fighting serious illnesses
Prepared with jaggery, coconut, nuts, and cardamom, these laddoos are naturally sweet, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. One ladder a day is enough, as these are warm in nature and highly energizing.
Health Benefits of Aliv (Garden Cress) Seeds
- Rich in iron, calcium, protein, niacin, folate
- Boosts breast milk production
- Improves fertility & reproductive health
- Helps with acne, hair fall & baldness
- Reduces PMS, mood swings & sugar cravings
- Supports chemo recovery & immunity
- Beneficial for anemia, kidney & liver disorders
Ingredients
- Fresh grated coconut – from 2 coconuts
- Fresh coconut water – 1 cup
- Aliv / Halim / Garden Cress Seeds – 100 g
- Organic jaggery – 500 g
- Chopped cashews & almonds – 2 tbsp
- Cardamom powder – ¼ tsp
- Ghee or oil – 1 tbsp
- A pinch of salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
Method
Step 1: Soak the Aliv Seeds
- Wash 100 g of aliv seeds thoroughly to remove impurities.
Soak them in fresh coconut water for 2–3 hours (or overnight for better absorption). - You can also use milk or plain water, but coconut water enhances both flavor and nutrition.
- Once soaked, the seeds will swell and form a gel-like texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan (kadhai) on low flame.
Add 1 tbsp ghee or oil.
Add Fresh grated coconut, Soaked aliv seeds along with the water. - Stir gently for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Jaggery & Nuts
- Add 500 gm Crushed or grated jaggery, Chopped cashews and almonds – 2 tbsp.
- Mix continuously on low heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Flavor & Final Binding
- Now add Cardamom powder and a pinch of salt (optional)
- Cook until the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan.
- You’ll notice the mixture becoming heavy and difficult to stir—this is the perfect stage!
- Then turn off the heat and allow it to cool slightly until warm to touch.
Step 5: Shape the Laddoos
- Grease your palms lightly with ghee.
Take small portions and roll into round, bite-sized laddoos. - Enjoy immediately once completely cooled. and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.. Shelf life of laddu is 10–15 days
In today’s fast-food lifestyle, we often forget the healing power of traditional foods. These Aliv Laddoos are a reminder that nature truly provides everything we need to stay healthy. When combined with clean eating, yoga, and regular activity, simple homemade foods like this can help eliminate health issues from the root.
Eat healthy, cook at home, and take care of yourself.
Until next time—see you with another nourishing recipe!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Aliv Laddoos
✔️ Always cook on low flame to prevent bitterness
✔️ Do not overcook jaggery—it may harden the laddoos
✔️ One laddoo per day is sufficient due to its heat-generating nature
✔️ Best consumed in winter, post-pregnancy, or during fatigue
✔️ Can be taken with warm milk at night for extra nourishment
✔️ Ghee helps in better nutrient absorption
