Sandesh Panna Cotta Recipe: A Fusion of Bengali and Italian Flavors
This Sandesh Panna Cotta is a delightful fusion of Bengali Sandesh and the classic Italian Panna Cotta. The rich creaminess of paneer and milk, combined with the aromatic touch of saffron, make this dessert truly irresistible. The simplicity of the recipe, requiring minimal cooking time, makes it an easy yet indulgent treat that can impress at any gathering. Whether itβs a festive celebration or a casual dinner, this dessert will undoubtedly become the centerpiece, leaving guests enchanted with its delicate flavor and texture.
Perfect for those who enjoy trying new variations on traditional dishes, Sandesh Panna Cotta offers the best of both worlds. Creamy, slightly sweet, and infused with a gentle hint of saffron, it will transport you to a place of pure bliss with every bite.
Cuisine: Fusion
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1/3 cup |
| Milk Powder | 1/4 cup |
| Caster Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Milk (full-fat) | 1/2 cup |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Saffron Strands | 2 pinch |
| Unflavored Gelatin | 2 teaspoons |
| Pistachios (chopped, for garnish) | As required |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours (or more)
Instructions
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Prepare the Molds: Begin by greasing silicon molds or bowls with a neutral-flavored oil. Set them aside for later use. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
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Prepare the Paneer Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh paneer, milk powder, and caster sugar. Stir well until smooth and creamy, ensuring all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Infuse the Cream and Saffron: In a saucepan, add the heavy whipping cream, milk, and saffron strands. Gently bring this mixture to a simmer. Be cautious not to boil it. Once it reaches a simmer, add the gelatin. Stir continuously until the gelatin fully dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth.
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Combine the Mixtures: Turn off the heat and allow the cream-gelatin mixture to cool slightly. Once it cools, pass it through a sieve to remove any residual saffron strands. Then, add the strained cream-gelatin mixture to the paneer and milk powder mixture. Whisk thoroughly until everything blends together seamlessly.
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Chill the Panna Cotta: Pour the prepared mixture into the greased silicon molds. Place the molds in the refrigerator and allow the panna cotta to set for at least 2 hours. For best results, let it chill for a longer time to ensure it sets perfectly.
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Unmold and Garnish: Once the panna cotta has set, gently unmold it from the molds. Garnish with chopped pistachios or any other nuts of your choice. You can also drizzle some honey or rose water for an added aromatic twist.
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Serve and Enjoy: The Sandesh Panna Cotta is now ready to be served. Enjoy it as a standalone dessert or pair it with other treats such as Baked Multigrain Mathri with Italian flavors for a complete experience.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sandesh Panna Cotta:
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Paneer Consistency: The texture of the paneer is crucial for the smoothness of the panna cotta. If you are using homemade paneer, make sure itβs smooth and well-drained. If it’s too crumbly, blend it slightly before mixing it with the milk powder and sugar.
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Gelatin: If you prefer a vegetarian alternative to gelatin, you can opt for agar-agar as a substitute. Make sure to follow the appropriate instructions for dissolving it.
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Chilling Time: For best results, let the panna cotta set for a longer period, preferably overnight. This ensures a firm texture that holds its shape well when unmolded.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors. Adding rose water, cardamom, or vanilla can enhance the taste, giving it a more unique twist.
Conclusion
Sandesh Panna Cotta is a dessert that brings together the best of Bengali and Italian culinary traditions. With its rich, creamy texture and the subtle warmth of saffron, this fusion dish is sure to be the star of your dessert table. Its simplicity and elegance make it an ideal choice for both special occasions and casual gatherings. Try it out for your next festive celebration and watch it steal the show!
