Desserts from Musaafer look beautiful and can heal your body too!

Houston – Do you think you know Indian sweets? Think again.

Indian pastry is getting a modern, mindful makeover thanks to Chef Sumant Sharma at Micheline Star Indian restaurant, Musaafer. Known for his holistic and science-forward approach, Sumant is blending centuries-old Indian dessert traditions with molecular gastronomy — and wellness.

“Instead of hospital, I did hospitality”

Born in a farming family in India, Sharma once dreamed of becoming a doctor. Instead, he found his calling in the kitchen, where he now crafts sweets that heal as much as they are delicious.

From using clarified butter and chickpea flour to adding saffron and cardamom for fragrance and health benefits, Sharma’s desserts are rooted in Ayurveda. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health, Ayurveda is based on ancient writings that rely on a “natural” and holistic approach to physical and mental health. It is one of the world’s oldest medical systems, still largely practiced in India today.

Even indulgent treats like ladoo are being reimagined — lighter, healthier, and packed with purpose.

Health Benefits of Til Besan Ladoo

1. High in Plant-Based Protein Besan (chickpea flour) is an excellent source of protein, making these ladoos a great snack for vegetarians and those seeking muscle recovery or energy.

2. Supports Heart Health Sesame seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-6, which support cardiovascular health and help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).

3. Rich in Micronutrients

· Iron: Essential for hemoglobin production and preventing fatigue.

· Potassium: Helps maintain fluid balance, supports nerve function, and controls blood pressure.

· Magnesium & Calcium (from sesame seeds): Promote bone health and muscle function.

4. Boosts Immunity and Digestion Ghee aids in the digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Cardamom and saffron have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that support immunity and gut health.

5. Natural Energy Booster The combination of healthy fats, protein, and slow-releasing carbohydrates makes this an ideal energy-boosting snack.

6. Gut-Friendly Roasted besan is easier to digest and, along with ghee, supports digestive fire (agni), in line with Ayurvedic principles.

Want to try them yourself? Chef Sharma shared his Besan Ladoo recipe with us. Many of these ingredients you can find at your local Indian, Pakistani, or Middle Eastern grocers.

Besan Ladoo

• 1 cup + 2 tbsp ladoo besan (black gram flour)
• ½ cup besan (regular chickpea flour)
• 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• ½ cup + 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• ⅛ tsp cardamom powder (a small pinch)
• 15 sprigs of saffron

1. Heat the ghee until it reaches its smoke point.
2. Add both types of chickpea flour to the ghee, then immediately reduce the heat.
3. Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously, until the besan turns golden brown and aromatic.
4. Add the remaining ingredients and cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture into a clean stainless steel bowl and let it cool at room temperature.
6. Shape the ladoos by hand into small balls, or pour the warm mixture into your desired silicone molds.
7. Let it set at room temperature, then place the molds in the freezer for 10 minutes before demolding.

Sesame Crumble

• ⅔ cup toasted sesame seeds
• ¼ cup caramelized sugar or jaggery (packed)
• 2 tsp melted ghee
• A pinch (less than ⅛ tsp) cardamom powder

Place all the ingredients in a mixer grinder jar and grind them to a coarse, crumb-like texture.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar
• Moringa powder
• Microgreens
• Fennel
• Edible flowers

Assembly

1. Spoon about 2 teaspoons of the sesame crumble onto a serving plate.
2. Place the besan ladoo pebbles gently on top of the crumble.
3. Sprinkle a touch of moringa powder and a light dusting of powdered sugar over the ladoo for garnish and added flavor