Kesar Paneer Ki Kheer – Cottage Cheese Milk Pudding
A Delicious North Indian Dessert
Kesar Paneer Ki Kheer is a luxurious and aromatic dessert that features the rich flavors of saffron, cardamom, and homemade paneer (cottage cheese). This traditional North Indian delicacy is often served on festive occasions or as a special treat after a hearty meal. With its creamy texture, the infusion of saffron adds a beautiful golden hue and a hint of floral fragrance that perfectly complements the crumbly texture of homemade paneer.
This dessert is easy to make, though it requires patience while condensing the milk to create that rich, creamy consistency. Garnished with almonds, pistachios, and a touch of edible silver foil, Kesar Paneer Ki Kheer is a treat for both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 1 liter |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1 cup (crumbled) |
| Saffron strands | 15 strands |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Almonds (Badam) | 4 (pounded) |
| Pistachios | 4 (pounded) |
| Edible silver foil/leaf (Chandi Ka Vark) | For garnishing |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Boil the Milk
Begin by heating 1 liter of milk in a heavy-bottomed pan. Bring the milk to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. -
Condense the Milk
Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer. Continue to cook the milk, stirring frequently, for about 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the milk will reduce to about half its original quantity. This step is crucial for achieving the rich and creamy consistency of the kheer. -
Add Flavorings
After the milk has condensed, add the saffron strands, sugar, and cardamom powder to the mixture. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the saffron and cardamom. -
Incorporate the Paneer
Next, crumble the homemade paneer (chenna) and add it to the milk mixture. Stir it gently into the milk, allowing the paneer to blend in and absorb the flavors of the saffron and cardamom. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency. -
Finish and Garnish
Once the kheer has thickened, turn off the heat. Transfer the warm Kesar Paneer Ki Kheer into serving bowls. Garnish with the pounded almonds and pistachios for a crunchy texture. Add a delicate piece of edible silver foil (Chandi Ka Vark) on top for an elegant finishing touch. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve this rich and aromatic Kesar Paneer Ki Kheer as a delightful dessert after your meal. It pairs beautifully with a traditional North Indian spread such as Jodhpuri Aloo, Ajwain Puri, Boondi Raita, and Satvik Carrot Sprout Salad for a complete and memorable meal.
Tips for the Perfect Kheer
- If you don’t have homemade paneer, you can use store-bought paneer, though homemade paneer adds a much creamier texture.
- To enhance the flavor, you can soak the saffron in a tablespoon of warm milk for a few minutes before adding it to the boiling milk.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can add more sugar to taste.
Conclusion
Kesar Paneer Ki Kheer is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines the goodness of milk, saffron, and homemade paneer. Its rich texture and delicate flavor make it a beloved choice for special occasions. Whether served at a family gathering or as part of a festive meal, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
