Dates and nuts ladoo / Amazeballs

This time for Diwali I did not want to make the traditional sweets especially because of the high oil, ghee and sugar content in them. Then I saw this protein ball in one of the health shops and realised I can make it at home for this Diwali. Here's the recipe for a simple, high energy, guilt-free and cruelty-free sweet / snack.

INGREDIENTS

1. Pitted Dates - 500 gms
2. Mixed Raw Nuts - 3 cups (almonds, walnuts, cashew, hazelnuts, pistachios, etc)
3. Mixed Raw Seeds - 1 cup (sunflower, pumpkin, flax, chia, etc)
4. Desiccated coconut & sesame seeds - to roll the ladoos / balls

METHOD

1. In a microwave proof bowl put the dates add about half cup of water a microwave for 2 minutes. In case you don't want use the microwave put the cup of water on the dates and keep it closed for about 5 minutes
2. In a blender / food processor roughly blend the dates, nuts and seeds till they are coated well.
3. If the mixture is not wet enough to make ball you could add some honey, maple syrup or agave syrup.
4. Now, use a tablespoon to measure the mixture and roll into firm balls. Then roll in a mix of coconut and sesame seeds. You could use either coconut or sesame or both. I used both.
5. Store in airtight box in a fridge. Should last for about 3 weeks unless finished earlier.

VARIATION

1. For flavour  you could add cacao powder, cinnamon powder, vanilla extract or any flavour of your choice when you are blending the nuts and dates.
2. You could add other dry fruits like raisins, cranberry, etc to the mix.