Make Mouth-Watering Kalakand In 6 Quick And Easy Steps

Kalakand is a delectable Indian sweet made from crumbled paneer or khoya (milk solids), cooked with sugar and ghee. This treat is characterized by its soft, crumbly texture and delicate sweetness, often enhanced with cardamom for a subtle aromatic flavor. Kalakand is typically garnished with chopped nuts, adding a touch of crunch and richness. It is a popular dessert during festivals and special occasions, enjoyed for its creamy consistency and melt-in-the-mouth quality.

Here's a simple recipe for making Kalakand, a popular Indian sweet made from paneer or khoya:

1. Ingredients

- 2 cups crumbled paneer or khoya (milk solids)

- 1 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup milk

- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)

- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar (for curdling milk, if using milk)

- Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios) for garnish

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare Paneer (If using milk):

- Heat 2 cups of milk in a pan and bring it to a boil.

- Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to curdle the milk. Stir gently.

- Once the milk curdles, strain it through a cheesecloth or a fine sieve to separate the curds from the whey. Rinse the curds under cold water to remove the acidic taste.

- Press out excess water and crumble the paneer.

Step 2- Cook the Mixture:

- Heat ghee in a non-stick pan over medium heat.

- Add crumbled paneer or khoya to the pan and cook for a couple of minutes.

- Pour in the milk and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.

Step 3- Add Sugar and Cardamom:

- Add sugar to the pan and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens further and starts to come together.

- Add cardamom powder and mix well.

Step 4- Set the Kalakand:

- Transfer the mixture to a greased plate or tray, spreading it evenly.

- Garnish with chopped nuts, pressing them lightly into the surface.

Step 5- Cool and Cut:

- Allow the kalakand to cool and set for a few hours or until firm.

- Once set, cut into squares or desired shapes.

Step 6- Serve:

- Enjoy the kalakand as a sweet treat during festivals or special occasions.

This homemade Kalakand is rich, flavorful, and a delightful addition to any festive spread.