Navratri 2024: Indulge In The Bengali Delicacy Paneer Kheer

Navratri, a vibrant festival celebrating the divine feminine, is a time for fasting, devotion, and delectable food. While many traditional dishes are prepared during this auspicious period, one sweet that stands out in Bengali cuisine is Paneer Kheer. This creamy, rich dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a touch of festivity to your Navratri celebrations.

Paneer Kheer is a delightful Indian dessert made primarily from paneer (cottage cheese), milk, and sugar, infused with aromatic cardamom and garnished with nuts. This dish is particularly loved for its smooth texture and sweet flavor, making it a perfect offering for the goddess Durga during Navratri.

Ingredients of Paneer Kheer

500 grams of paneer
1 liter of full-fat milk
1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
4-5 green cardamom pods
A handful of cashews and almonds (for garnishing)
Saffron strands (optional)
2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)

How to Make Paneer Kheer

To prepare Paneer Kheer, start by making fresh paneer if you don't have store-bought. Boil 1 liter of milk and curdle it with lemon juice, then strain the curds through a muslin cloth to remove excess water. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee and add 4-5 crushed green cardamom pods, sautéing for a minute until fragrant. Pour the thickened milk into the pan and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until it thickens.

Next, crumble the prepared paneer into small pieces and add it to the simmering milk, stirring well to combine. Sweeten the kheer by adding 1 cup of sugar, continuing to cook for another 10 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the kheer reaches a creamy consistency, remove it from the heat and garnish with a handful of cashews, almonds, and optional saffron strands. Finally, serve the Paneer Kheer warm or chilled, making it a perfect addition to your Navratri celebrations. Enjoy this delightful treat as a sweet offering to Goddess Durga or as a festive dessert with family!

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