Decadent Ras Malai with Saffron and Pistachios
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this traditional Indian dessert, Ras Malai, featuring soft, spongy cheese balls soaked in a fragrant saffron-infused milk. Originating from the rich culinary heritage of India, this dish is a celebration of sweet and creamy textures, complemented by the aromatic essence of cardamom and rose water. Perfect for special occasions, this delightful treat is a true royal indulgence that promises to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Take a step into the world of royal Indian cookery with this easy-to-follow recipe adapted from 'A Taste of Palace Life Royal Indian Cookery' by Manju Shivra.
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
milk
7 1/2 cups (none)
sugar
1 cup (none)
green cardamoms
1 teaspoon (crushed)
saffron
1 teaspoon (none)
cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups (none)
all-purpose flour
3/4 cup (none)
rose water or kewra essence
1 teaspoon (none)
pistachio nuts
3-5 (shelled and chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by pouring the milk into a large heavy-bottomed pan, followed by the sugar.
2
Lightly crush the green cardamom pods and add them to the pan along with the saffron strands, mixing well.
3
Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook, stirring occasionally, until the milk has reduced by half and thickens slightly, which should take about 30-40 minutes.
4
Once thickened, reduce the heat to the lowest setting to keep the milk warm.
5
In a separate bowl, beat together the cottage cheese and all-purpose flour until you achieve a smooth dough. Divide this mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions and roll them into smooth balls.
6
Flatten each ball slightly to form small discs, then gently drop them into the simmering milk mixture.
7
Let the cheese balls cook in the milk for about 10 to 15 minutes. They will expand and become spongy.
8
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and carefully transfer the Ras Malai into a serving bowl, allowing it to cool completely in the milk.
9
Once cooled, stir in the rose water or kewra essence to enhance the flavor.
10
Refrigerate the dessert to chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
11
Before serving, chop the pistachios and sprinkle them generously on top for a delightful crunch.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
40g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Ras Malai?
It is a traditional Indian dessert featuring soft, spongy cheese balls soaked in a fragrant saffron-infused milk.
How much milk is required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 7 1/2 cups of milk.
What type of cheese is used in Ras Malai?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of cottage cheese.
How long does it take to reduce the milk?
The milk should be simmered until reduced by half, which typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
What is the calorie count for this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 cup of sugar.
How do you prepare the cardamom?
One teaspoon of green cardamom pods should be lightly crushed before being added to the milk.
How much saffron is needed?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of saffron strands.
How do you make the cheese dough?
Beat together the cottage cheese and 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour until a smooth dough is achieved.
How many portions does the dough make?
The mixture should be divided into 6 to 8 equal portions.
What is the shape of the cheese pieces?
Roll the dough into smooth balls and then flatten them slightly to form small discs.
How long should the cheese discs cook in the milk?
They should cook in the simmering milk for about 10 to 15 minutes until they become spongy.
Do the cheese balls change size while cooking?
Yes, the cheese balls will expand as they cook in the milk mixture.
What is the recommended chilling time?
The dessert should be refrigerated to chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
When should the rose water be added?
Stir in 1 teaspoon of rose water or kewra essence once the Ras Malai has cooled completely.
What is the garnish for this dessert?
The dish is garnished with 3 to 5 chopped pistachio nuts for a delightful crunch.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 10 grams of protein per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
One serving of Ras Malai contains 10 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in the dish?
There are 40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Who is the author of the book this recipe is adapted from?
The recipe is adapted from 'A Taste of Palace Life Royal Indian Cookery' by Manju Shivra.
What type of pan is best for this recipe?
A large heavy-bottomed pan is recommended for cooking the milk and sugar mixture.
Can I use kewra essence instead of rose water?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either 1 teaspoon of rose water or 1 teaspoon of kewra essence.
Where does this dish originate?
Ras Malai originates from the rich culinary heritage of India.
What is the final texture of the cheese balls?
The cheese balls are described as soft and spongy.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the fiber content is null.
What is the amount of all-purpose flour used?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour.
What heat setting is used to reduce the milk?
The milk should be simmered over medium heat.
What should be done before adding the cheese balls to the milk?
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting to keep the milk warm after it has thickened.
Are the pistachios prepared in a specific way?
Yes, the 3 to 5 pistachio nuts should be shelled and chopped.
What makes this dish appropriate for special occasions?
Its luxurious flavors, aromatic spices, and royal Indian heritage make it a perfect celebratory treat.