Kesar Peda Recipe
Traditional Indian Sweets That Bring Joy to Any Occasion
Kesar Peda is an exquisite and aromatic Indian dessert, famous for its rich, indulgent flavor. It is incredibly simple to make and is sure to impress at any festive gathering. This treat, made primarily from khoya (mawa), sugar, and infused with saffron and cardamom, is a must-have during Indian festivals like Diwali or Holi. Kesar Peda is not just a feast for the taste buds but a delight for the eyes as well, often adorned with pistachios for a crunchy contrast. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe ensures a smooth preparation and will leave everyone asking for more.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Khoya (Mawa) | 300 grams (store-bought or homemade) |
| Sugar | 4 tablespoons |
| Saffron Strands | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pistachios (sliced) | 1 tablespoon |
| Ghee (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
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Prepare the Saffron Milk: Start by warming the milk gently. Once the milk is warm (but not boiling), soak the saffron strands in it. Set the mixture aside for about 10 minutes to allow the saffron to release its vibrant color and aroma.
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Cook Khoya and Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai, crumble the khoya and add it along with sugar. Stir the mixture continuously over low heat for 4-5 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely. The khoya will initially melt and then start thickening again, so make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning.
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Add the Flavors: Once the khoya thickens, pour in the saffron-infused milk along with the powdered cardamom. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the khoya reaches a sticky dough-like consistency and begins to leave the sides of the pan.
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Cool the Mixture: Turn off the heat and let the khoya mixture cool down for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, knead it lightly to smooth out any lumps, ensuring a soft, smooth texture. For an extra sheen, add a little ghee at this stage and knead it in.
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Shape the Pedas: Take the prepared dough and roll it into a log shape. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball. With your thumb, create a small dent in the center of each ball. Gently place a pistachio slice in the center of each peda.
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Optional Molding: If you have a peda mold, you can also use it to shape your pedas for a more traditional appearance, as shown in the image.
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Serve: Once shaped, the Kesar Peda is ready to serve. It’s best enjoyed as a dessert after a festive meal. Pair it with flavorful dishes like Tandoori Gobi Tikka, Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala, or a fragrant Modur Pulao with Pomegranate to complete your celebration.
Serving Suggestions
Kesar Peda is a perfect treat to serve at festive meals, special occasions, or simply as an indulgent dessert after a family dinner. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside your favorite Indian sweets or enjoy it on its own. No matter the occasion, Kesar Peda brings a touch of sweetness and joy to any table.
Enjoying Kesar Peda
From the first bite, you’ll experience the velvety texture of khoya combined with the warmth of saffron and cardamom. This Indian sweet is a timeless classic, beloved by many for its simplicity and flavor. Perfect for those new to Indian sweets or experienced connoisseurs, Kesar Peda is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Love With Recipes Tip:
For a richer taste, feel free to adjust the amount of ghee added during the kneading step. Adding a bit more will give your pedas a glossy finish and a deeper flavor. You can also experiment by adding other nuts like almonds or cashews for extra texture and taste!
Enjoy making and sharing this delectable dessert with your loved ones!
