Chhena Payesh

Chhena Payesh is a delightful Indian dessert made from fresh chhena (cottage cheese) and cooked in a creamy, sweetened milk base. This high-protein treat is often flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts, making it a perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Milk - 500 ml
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Sugar - 4 tablespoons
• Cardamom powder - 1/4 teaspoon
• Chopped pistachios - 1 tablespoon
• Chopped almonds - 1 tablespoon
• Saffron strands - a pinch (optional)
• Water - 1/2 liter

Steps

1. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat and add lemon juice, stirring until the milk curdles and separates into chhena (cottage cheese) and whey.
3. Strain the chhena through a muslin cloth or fine sieve, rinsing with cold water to remove the lemon flavor. Squeeze out excess water and set aside.
4. In the same saucepan, add the strained whey back to the heat and bring it to a simmer.
5. Add sugar and cook until it dissolves completely, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chhena to the simmering whey and mix well.
7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken while stirring frequently.
8. Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using), and mix well to incorporate the flavors.
9. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
10. Garnish with chopped pistachios and almonds before serving warm or chilled.

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein due to the chhena, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Contains healthy fats from the nuts, which are beneficial for heart health.

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