Atar Payesh Recipe (Sitaphal Kheer) – A Bengali Delight
Description:
Atar Payesh, also known as Sitaphal Kheer, is a rich and creamy Bengali dessert that combines the sweetness of custard apple with the luxurious texture of reduced milk and heavy whipping cream. Infused with aromatic cardamom, this dessert is perfect for festivals or special occasions. The delightful pairing of milk and custard apple creates an indulgent treat that is sure to leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
Cuisine: Bengali
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 2 liters |
| Custard Apple (Sitaphal) | 4 |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 100 ml |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | To taste |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
40 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Custard Apples:
Begin by gently breaking each custard apple into halves. Scoop out the pulp with a spoon, removing the seeds carefully. Use a fork to lightly mash the custard apple pulp and set it aside. -
Cook the Milk:
Pour the milk into a thick-bottomed pan and set it to boil. Add the cardamom powder to the milk and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the milk to reduce to half its original volume. This process may take around 25-30 minutes, so be patient and let the milk thicken. -
Add the Custard Apple Pulp:
Once the milk has reduced, add the mashed custard apple pulp into the milk. Continue to cook the mixture on low flame for another 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan. -
Sweeten to Taste:
Add sugar to the mixture according to your taste. Keep in mind that custard apples are naturally sweet, so you might need less sugar. (I used just a tablespoon of sugar since the custard apples I had were quite sweet.) -
Finish with Whipping Cream:
Turn off the flame and fold in the heavy whipping cream. Stir gently to combine the cream with the milk and custard apple mixture, creating a smooth and creamy texture. -
Chill and Serve:
Let the Atar Payesh cool to room temperature and then refrigerate it for a few hours until it’s chilled. Serve this indulgent dessert cold for the best experience.
Serving Suggestion:
Atar Payesh is best enjoyed after a hearty Bengali meal, such as Cholar Dal, Bengali Luchi, and Begun Bhaja. This sweet treat will add the perfect finishing touch to any special occasion or festive meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Protein | ~6g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on average ingredients and serving size.)
Conclusion:
Atar Payesh, or Sitaphal Kheer, is an epitome of Bengali sweetness, offering a perfect blend of creamy milk, sweet custard apples, and a hint of cardamom. It’s an easy yet indulgent dessert that will surely elevate your culinary experience on any special occasion.
