If you enjoy Indian sweets but want something that fits a protein-rich lifestyle, this high-protein besan peda is perfect. It’s simple, quick, and made with clean ingredients that bring flavour and nutrition together beautifully.
Every bite of this peda is soft, nutty, and gently sweet – a treat that doesn’t need any festival as an excuse to make.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: Makes 8–10 pedas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup Besan (gram flour)
- 3–5 tbsp A2 Desi Cow Ghee (add gradually)
- 2–3 tbsp Coconut Sugar (adjust to taste)
- A few strands of Kashmiri Saffron
- 1 tbsp Edible Rose Water
Optional Toppings:
- Pistachio slivers
- Almond slivers
- Dried rose petals
Step 1: Soak the saffron
Soak a few saffron strands in edible rose water and set aside. If you crush or bloom the saffron before soaking, it releases deeper colour and flavour – highly recommended.
Step 2: Roast the besan
Add 1 cup of besan to a heavy-bottomed pan. Roast it on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring continuously.
You’ll know it’s ready when the color turns golden and the kitchen smells nutty.
Step 3: Add the ghee
Add A2 Desi Cow Ghee, one spoon at a time. Keep stirring until it mixes well and turns smooth. The mixture should look glossy and slightly thick.
Step 4: Mix in the saffron-rose water
Pour in the saffron-rose water mixture and stir it in. This step adds aroma and a subtle floral note to the pedas.
Step 5: Add coconut sugar
Add coconut sugar to taste and mix until it melts into the mixture. Keep stirring so that it blends evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
Step 6: Shape into pedas
Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes. When it’s warm but easy to handle, take small portions and roll them into balls. Gently flatten each one into peda shapes or press into your preferred mold.
Step 7: Add toppings
Top each peda with pistachio or almond slivers. You can also add dried rose petals for a festive touch.
Tips for Perfect Pedas
- Roast the besan on low heat only; this prevents burning and gives the pedas their signature nutty flavour.
- Add ghee gradually. Too much at once can make the mixture greasy.
- Shape the pedas when the mixture is warm, not hot or cold.
How It Turned Out
The result is beautifully golden pedas with a melt-in-the-mouth texture. They’re not overly sweet, making them ideal for those who enjoy balanced desserts. These pedas hold their shape well, stay fresh for days, and make a perfect post-meal bite or festive treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a cup of chai or black coffee.
- Enjoy one as a post-workout snack – it’s high in protein and energizing.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Besan Peda shows that sweets don’t always have to be loaded with sugar or dairy to taste amazing. With just a few good ingredients and simple steps, you can make something that feels indulgent yet fits your everyday goals.
All ingredients used in this recipe – besan, A2 ghee, coconut sugar, saffron, rose water, and nuts – are available at Zama.
FAQs
Q: Can I skip rose water?
A: You can, though it adds a subtle floral note that enhances the saffron.
Q: What if I don’t have a peda mold?
A: Simply roll and flatten them with your hands. They’ll taste just as good.
Q: How can I make it more protein-rich?
A: Add hemp hearts or a spoon of almond flour to increase the protein content naturally.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, use coconut oil instead of ghee, but the texture will be slightly different.
