Kalakand Recipe
Kalakand is a popular Indian sweet made from solidified, sweetened milk and cottage cheese (paneer). It is known for its delicate texture and rich, milky flavor. Here is a recipe for how to make kalakand:
Ingredients:
- 1 liter (4 cups) of full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice or 3-4 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) (optional)
Instructions:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
- Add lemon juice or vinegar to the milk and stir gently. The milk will start to curdle.
- Cook the curdled milk until the whey separates and the paneer is formed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the paneer through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer and discard the whey.
- Crumble the paneer and add it back to the pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the paneer becomes dry and starts to leave the sides of the pan. This will take around 15-20 minutes.
- Add sugar to the pan and mix well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens.
- Remove the pan from heat and add cardamom powder and chopped nuts (if using). Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or tray and spread it out evenly.
- Allow the kalakand to cool for a few minutes and then cut it into desired shapes.
- Serve the kalakand at room temperature or chilled.
Note: You can also add some saffron or rose water for added flavor.
You can also add some food coloring to give it a different color.
You can store kalakand in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
It is typically served as a dessert during festivals, religious occasions, and also at weddings.
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious sweet.
Let me know in the comment box if you have any questions or suggestions.
Nutrition information
Assuming the recipe makes 8 servings, here is the approximate nutrition information per serving:
- Calories: 238
- Total fat: 8g
- Saturated fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 34g
- Protein: 7g
Please note that the actual nutrition information may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used, as well as any variations in preparation.