Lavanga Lathalu | Stuffed Coconut Sweet

Introduction

Lavanga Lathalu is a beloved traditional sweet from South India, particularly popular in Telugu households. Known for its delicious contrast of a crispy outer layer and soft, coconut-sweet filling, this snack is both flavorful and health-conscious due to the use of clove, which not only enhances the taste but also helps prevent cough when consumed with the filling. This snack, often prepared during festivals and special occasions, was shared with us by Mrs. Lakshmi, who provided a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make it. Let's dive into this delicious treat!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Yield: 25 - 30
Shelf life: 15-20 days
Main ingredient: Coconut
Course: Snack
1 bowl measurement: 250 ml

Quick Navigation:

• Ingredients
• Procedure
• Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Filling
• Step 2: Cook the Mixture
• Step 3: Test for Thickness
• Step 4: Prepare Poppy Seeds and Cardamom
• Step 5: Mix the Powders into the Filling
• Step 6: Prepare the Dough
• Step 7: Shape the Dough
• Step 8: Stuff the Dough
• Step 9: Secure with Clove
• Step 10: Prepare for Frying
• Step 11: Fry the Lavanga Lathalu
• Step 12: Final Presentation
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Fresh grated coconut: 2 bowls

Sugar (panchadara): 1 bowl

Maida or all-purpose flour: 250 grams

Cooking butter: 50 grams

Salt: 1/2 tbsp

Oil: For frying

Cardamom (yalukalu, elaichi): 4 or 5

Poppy seeds (gasagasalu): 1 tbsp or 25 grams (optional)

Cloves (lavangalu): 25

Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Filling

Add sugar to the grated coconut.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

Add 1/4th bowl of water and cook the mixture on low flame till the sugar melts and thickens.

Step 3: Test for Thickness

Continue cooking until the mixture forms a ball when cooled, which ensures the right consistency.

Step 4: Prepare Poppy Seeds and Cardamom

Semi-fry poppy seeds, allow them to cool, then powder them along with the cardamom.

Step 5: Mix the Powders into the Filling

Add the poppy seed and cardamom powder to the coconut mixture, mix well, and let it cool.

Step 6: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, add cooking butter to the maida. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough, similar to chapati dough.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Take a lemon-sized portion of dough, roll it thin and round.

Step 8: Stuff the Dough

Stuff 1 or 2 tablespoons of the cooled coconut mixture into the dough and fold it.

Step 9: Secure with Clove

Insert a clove in the center of the folded dough to hold it together during frying.

Step 10: Prepare for Frying

Prepare the required quantity of Lavanga Lathalu and save the stuffing powder for later if desired (the coconut mixture has a 10-day shelf life in the freezer).

Step 11: Fry the Lavanga Lathalu

Preheat oil and fry the prepared Lavanga Lathalu on high flame until golden brown on both sides.

Step 12: Final Presentation

Tasty and yummy lavanga lathalu is ready. Let them cool and enjoy the taste (Note: if consumed immediately it will be too hot inside).

Conclusion

Your Lavanga Lathalu is now ready to be served! This coconut-stuffed, crispy snack is perfect for festivals, celebrations, or even as an evening treat with tea. Its unique combination of soft coconut filling and crispy exterior, locked with the aromatic clove, makes it a delightful treat for anyone. You can even store the extra stuffing for future use and fry fresh Lavanga Lathalu whenever the craving strikes. Enjoy!