Classic Bengali Sandesh

Indulge in the delicate sweetness of Classic Bengali Sandesh, a traditional Indian sweet that's both elegant and easy to prepare. Made from freshly curdled paneer, kneaded to creamy perfection with sugar and aromatic cardamom, this melt-in-your-mouth dessert is gently cooked to preserve its soft texture and rich flavor. Topped with vibrant pistachios and fragrant saffron strands, Sandesh is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. Perfect for festivals, celebrations, or satisfying your sweet tooth, this no-bake Bengali treat is ready in just over an hour and promises to bring timeless charm to your dessert table.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 2 liters Whole milk
• 4 tablespoons Lemon juice
• 150 grams Sugar
• 0.5 teaspoons Cardamom powder
• 10 pieces Pistachios
• 10 strands Saffron strands
• 2 tablespoons Water

Directions

Step 1

Start by heating the whole milk in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally, ensuring it doesn't stick to the bottom.

Step 2

Meanwhile, prepare the curdling agent by mixing lemon juice with 2 tablespoons of water, and set aside.

Step 3

Just before the milk comes to a boil, slowly add the lemon juice mixture, stirring continuously. The milk will start to curdle, with the whey separating from the solids.

Step 4

Turn off the heat once the whey is clear and allow it to sit for a minute.

Step 5

Line a fine sieve or colander with a muslin cloth and pour the curdled milk through it, allowing the whey to drain away. Rinse under cold water to remove the lemon taste.

Step 6

Gather the muslin cloth's edges together and gently squeeze out the excess water. Hang it up for 30 minutes to ensure all water is removed, leaving soft, fresh paneer.

Step 7

Transfer the paneer to a clean surface and knead for 10 minutes until it is smooth and creamy.

Step 8

Next, add the sugar and cardamom powder to the paneer, and knead again until the sugar is fully integrated and the mixture is smooth.

Step 9

Heat a non-stick pan on a low flame and cook the paneer mixture gently, stirring continuously for about 8-10 minutes until it slightly thickens, ensuring it doesn't overcook or dry out.

Step 10

Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once manageable, shape the mixture into small, flat discs or cubes.

Step 11

Garnish each Sandesh with a pistachio and a saffron strand for the final touch.

Step 12

Refrigerate for 1 hour to set properly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2313.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1934.1

Total Fat 71.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 39.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.6g
Cholesterol 247.5mg	0%
Sodium 788.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 252.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.6g	0%
Total Sugars 251.3g
Protein 69.9g	0%

Vitamin D 907.6IU	0%
Calcium 2559.8mg	0%
Iron 0.7mg	0%
Potassium 3276.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.2%

Protein: 14.5%

Carbs: 52.3%