Can toddlers eat chikki?

Hard chikki is a choking risk for under-fives; make soft til laddoos instead.

How long does it keep?

Two to three weeks in an airtight jar.

White or black sesame?

Both are nutritious; black sesame is traditionally preferred for hair and winter.

Homemade Til-Gud Chikki for Kids in Winter

Crisp sesame and jaggery chikki made at home, a traditional Makar Sankranti treat that gives children calcium, iron and energy in winter.

The Ayurvedic view of sesame

Til (sesame) seeds and oil are warming and nourishing in Ayurveda. Sesame oil is the classic base for abhyanga (oil massage), and the seeds give calcium, iron and good fats.

Til and gud are the classic winter pairing in Indian homes. Sesame provides calcium and healthy fats, and jaggery adds iron and warmth. A small piece is a far better snack than packaged sweets.

Ingredients

1 cup white sesame seeds
¾ cup grated jaggery
1 tsp ghee
A pinch of cardamom powder

How to prepare

Dry-roast sesame till lightly golden.
Melt jaggery with ghee until it forms a hard ball in cold water; stir in sesame and cardamom.
Spread on a greased plate, cut into small pieces while warm.

How to use

Give one small piece a day after a meal in winter.
Rinse mouth or brush afterwards.

Helpful habits

Use cold-pressed (kachi ghani) sesame oil, not toasted oil, for massage.

Precautions

Sesame allergy is possible; introduce carefully. Small pieces only for young children to prevent choking.
Sesame allergy is common; avoid if you react to it.
For babies and children under five, ask the paediatrician first.
If you take regular medicines or have a long-term condition, check with your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions

Can toddlers eat chikki?: Hard chikki is a choking risk for under-fives; make soft til laddoos instead.
How long does it keep?: Two to three weeks in an airtight jar.
White or black sesame?: Both are nutritious; black sesame is traditionally preferred for hair and winter.