Gulab Sandesh Recipe – Cottage Cheese Flavored with Rose Water
Gulab Sandesh is a traditional North Indian dessert, known for its delicate flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This simple yet elegant treat combines homemade chenna (cottage cheese) with the fragrant essence of rose water, creating a delightful experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. Topped with sliced pistachios and optionally garnished with rose petals, Gulab Sandesh is a perfect dessert to impress guests or to enjoy as a special treat.
Ingredients for Gulab Sandesh
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chenna (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 350 grams |
| Powdered Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Rose Water | 1 teaspoon |
| Pistachios (sliced) | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Rose Petals (for garnish) | Optional |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Gulab Sandesh
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Prepare the Homemade Chenna
Begin by preparing your homemade chenna (cottage cheese) using fresh milk. Once the curdling process is complete, drain out all the water thoroughly. You can do this by hanging the chenna in a muslin cloth or cheesecloth for about 30 minutes to an hour, ensuring that all excess moisture is removed. The drier the chenna, the better the texture for the Gulab Sandesh. -
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Knead the Chenna
Once the chenna is well-drained, place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and rose water to the chenna. Now, using the heel of your palm, begin kneading the mixture. This process is crucial for achieving the smooth, soft texture of the sandesh. Continue kneading for at least 10 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and soft. The chenna should feel like a smooth dough that holds its shape without being sticky. -
Shape the Gulab Sandesh
Once the chenna mixture is ready, divide it into small equal portions, depending on the size of sandesh you want to create. Roll each portion between the palms of your hands to form smooth, round balls. -
Form the Impressions
Once the balls are shaped, use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each ball. This will serve as the perfect place to add a decorative touch. -
Garnish and Serve
For a beautiful presentation, garnish each Gulab Sandesh with a sliced pistachio or, if you prefer a more traditional touch, place a fresh rose petal in the center of each sandesh. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle flavor that complements the rose water. -
Serve and Enjoy
Your Gulab Sandesh is now ready to be served. For a perfect pairing, serve the sandesh with a warm cup of Tetley Cinnamon and Honey Green Tea. The aromatic blend of spices in the tea balances the sweetness of the sandesh, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Tips for Making Perfect Gulab Sandesh
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Consistency of Chenna: The texture of the chenna is key to the success of Gulab Sandesh. Be sure to knead it well to achieve a smooth and pliable dough. If the chenna is too dry, you can sprinkle a little milk to soften it up.
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Sugar Adjustments: You can adjust the sweetness to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar. However, traditional Gulab Sandesh is lightly sweetened, so it balances well with the delicate flavor of rose water.
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Rose Water: Use a high-quality rose water for the best flavor. The fragrance of the rose is essential in making this dessert truly special.
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Make Ahead: If you’re preparing the Gulab Sandesh in advance, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for a day or two in the refrigerator.
Why You’ll Love Gulab Sandesh
Gulab Sandesh is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. The rich texture of chenna paired with the aromatic rose water creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet light. Pistachios add a delightful crunch, while rose petals elevate the presentation, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or casual indulgence. Whether you serve it as a finale to a festive meal or as a treat with a cup of tea, this dessert is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Enjoy making this delightful North Indian dessert and experience the beautiful marriage of flavors that Gulab Sandesh brings to the table!
Keywords: Gulab Sandesh, Cottage Cheese Dessert, Rose Water, North Indian Sweets, Vegetarian Dessert, Pistachio Garnish, Traditional Indian Sweets
