Mishti Doi Recipe – Traditional Bengali Sweet Yogurt
Delight in the rich and creamy indulgence of Mishti Doi, a cherished dessert from Bengal that beautifully melds the flavors of caramelized sugar with yogurt, resulting in a sweet, velvety treat that is perfect for any occasion. This traditional sweet yogurt is not only a feast for the senses but also a representation of Bengali culinary heritage. With its delightful balance of sweetness and a hint of tanginess from the yogurt, it is sure to leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) – whisked | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 |
| Protein | ~6g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Calcium | ~250mg |
Preparation Details
| Detail | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 3 |
| Cuisine | Bengali |
| Course | Dessert |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
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Prepare the Milk: To start your journey into making the exquisite Mishti Doi, place a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and pour in the milk. Heat the milk gently, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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Add Sugar: Once the milk is warm, reserve 1/3 of the sugar for later use, adding the remaining sugar to the milk. Stir well to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely as the milk comes to a boil.
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Reduce the Milk: Allow the milk to boil gently, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This process is crucial as it helps to concentrate the flavors and thicken the milk; continue to simmer until it reduces by half. Once it reaches this consistency, take it off the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
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Caramelize the Sugar: In another pan, place the reserved sugar over low to medium heat. Allow it to warm and melt gradually, observing how it transitions to a beautiful golden color as it begins to caramelize. Be patient during this step, as it can quickly go from perfect to burnt if not watched closely.
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Combine Caramelized Sugar and Milk: Once the sugar has achieved a light golden, bubbly consistency, remove the pan from heat. Carefully add a tablespoon of water to the caramelized sugar; it will bubble up, creating a syrup. Pour this syrup into the reduced milk, stirring well to combine the flavors beautifully.
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Mix in the Yogurt: Allow the milk mixture to cool slightly before adding the whisked yogurt. Stir gently but thoroughly to incorporate the yogurt into the sweetened milk.
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Set the Doi: Pour the combined mixture into earthen pots or glass bowls, which are traditional vessels for setting Mishti Doi. Place the pots in a warm area to allow the yogurt to set for several hours.
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Chill and Serve: Once set, transfer the Mishti Doi to the refrigerator to chill. This dessert is best served cold, offering a refreshing treat after a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy your Mishti Doi after a delicious meal of Aloo Dum, Bengali Lucchi, and Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a truly authentic Bengali experience.
Conclusion
Mishti Doi embodies the essence of Bengali culture, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that tells a story of tradition and flavor. Its creamy texture and delightful sweetness make it a perfect end to any meal or a sweet indulgence on its own. Embrace the joy of cooking this beloved dessert and share it with family and friends, ensuring that the warmth of Bengali hospitality shines through every spoonful.
