The Ultimate Guide to Making Ras Malai at Home
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Introduction
Ras Malai is a beloved Indian dessert that combines soft, pillowy paneer chenna balls soaked in a rich, creamy flavored milk syrup. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Whether you're a dessert lover or someone who enjoys creating traditional Indian recipes at home, learning how to make Ras Malai can be a delightful experience.
Ingredients
For the Chenna Paneer Balls
1 liter whole milk 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional for binding)For the Ras Milk Syrup
1 liter full-fat milk 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste) 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder A few saffron strands (optional) Sauteed chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) for garnishInstructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chenna
Boil the Milk. Curdle the Milk by adding lemon juice or vinegar gradually and stirring gently until the milk curdles and the whey separates. Strain the Curdled Milk by pouring it into a muslin cloth or fine sieve and rinsing under cold water to remove the acidic taste. Squeeze out excess water. Knead the Chenna until smooth, adding all-purpose flour for better binding if desired. Divide the chenna into small portions and roll them into smooth balls.Step 2: Prepare the Ras Milk Syrup
Boil the full-fat milk over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. Reduce the Milk until it reduces to about half its volume (this will take about 30-40 minutes). Add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands if using. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.Step 3: Cook the Chenna Balls
Gently place the chenna balls into the simmering milk and cook for about 10-15 minutes until they double in size. Cool Down by turning off the heat and letting the balls soak in the milk for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.Step 4: Serve
Garnish with chopped nuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.Tips
Ensure the milk is full-fat for a rich and creamy texture. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Add flavor by infusing the milk with rose water or kewra water if desired.Enjoy making and indulging in this delightful dessert! With this guide, you can create homemade Ras Malai that will surely impress your family and friends.