Pista Sandesh Recipe: A Delightful Bengali Dessert
Description:
Pista Sandesh is a classic Bengali sweet, known for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and delicate flavors. Sandesh is made primarily from chenna (cottage cheese), and it’s a traditional treat in Bengali households, especially during festivals. This recipe brings a twist to the classic by incorporating powdered pistachios, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sweet, making it even more delicious. With only a few ingredients—chenna and sugar—it’s incredibly simple to prepare and perfect for gifting to loved ones during festive occasions. The addition of green food coloring gives it an eye-catching appearance, and garnishing it with pistachio adds a finishing touch.
This Pista Sandesh recipe requires very minimal preparation and cooking time, making it a convenient and special treat that anyone can prepare at home. So if you’re looking for an easy yet elegant dessert, this Pista Sandesh will surely make your gatherings more memorable.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chenna (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams |
| Sugar (powdered) | 7 tablespoons |
| Corn flour | 2 teaspoons |
| Pistachios (powdered) | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
| Food Color (Green) | Pinch (optional) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and ingredient variations.
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chenna:
Start by placing the chenna in a grinder jar. You can either use homemade chenna or store-bought chenna, depending on your preference. -
Grind the Mixture:
Add powdered sugar and corn flour to the chenna in the grinder. Blend everything together until you achieve a smooth, even texture. This step is crucial for getting the correct consistency for your Sandesh. -
Cook the Mixture:
Transfer the smooth mixture to a non-stick, heavy-bottomed pan. Cook the mixture on very low heat for about 8-10 minutes. Stir constantly to ensure that the mixture doesn’t burn or stick to the pan. The goal is for the mixture to thicken and dry out slightly without changing its color. -
Add Flavor and Color:
Once the mixture has thickened and is no longer sticky, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Add powdered pistachios to the mixture and, if desired, a pinch of green food coloring to give it a vibrant hue. Knead the mixture well until it becomes smooth and uniform. -
Shape the Sandesh:
Now that the mixture is smooth, shape it into small rounds, squares, or any shape you prefer. The traditional shape is small, bite-sized discs or ovals, but you can get creative with molds as well. -
Garnish and Chill:
Garnish each piece of Pista Sandesh with a whole pistachio on top for an extra crunch and visual appeal. Once done, refrigerate the Sandesh until it is ready to serve. Allow the sweet to chill for about 30 minutes before serving. -
Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Pista Sandesh is ready to be served. Present it as a delightful dessert for family and friends, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, whether a festival or a casual family dinner.
- Gift Packaging: Wrap it neatly in a decorative box or tray, making it an ideal gift for loved ones.
- Pair with Beverages: Serve with a traditional Bengali beverage, like rose sharbat, for a complete experience.
Why You’ll Love This Pista Sandesh
Pista Sandesh is a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The smooth chenna pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of pistachios, creating a treat that is both creamy and crunchy. It’s an elegant and simple dessert that will impress your guests without requiring hours of preparation. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced home chef, this dessert is a great way to bring a taste of Bengali cuisine to your table.
Try making this Pista Sandesh at home for an authentic, delicious experience that’s sure to delight everyone who tries it!
