Rasmalai is a popular Indian dessert made with soft and spongy cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sweetened milk and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It is a rich and indulgent dessert that is often served chilled. Here’s a detailed description of Rasmalai:
The process of making Rasmalai starts with preparing the cottage cheese dumplings, also known as “malai.” Milk is heated until it comes to a boil, and then a coagulating agent, such as lemon juice or vinegar, is added to curdle the milk. The curdled milk is then strained, and the resulting cottage cheese is gathered and kneaded to make a smooth and soft dough.
The dough is then divided into small portions, and each portion is shaped into flattened discs or balls. These dumplings are then cooked in a sugar syrup flavored with cardamom and sometimes saffron. The syrup infuses the dumplings with sweetness and aromatic flavors.
Once the dumplings are cooked, they are transferred to a bowl of sweetened milk known as “rabri.” Rabri is made by simmering milk on low heat for an extended period until it reduces and thickens. Sugar is added to sweeten the milk, and cardamom and saffron are added for flavor. The dumplings are gently immersed in the milk and left to soak for a few hours or overnight, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the milk.
The resulting Rasmalai is a delightful dessert with soft, spongy dumplings that have absorbed the sweet and creamy milk. It is often garnished with chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, to add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
Rasmalai is typically served chilled, making it a refreshing and indulgent treat, especially during hot summer days. It is commonly enjoyed as a dessert at festive occasions, weddings, or special celebrations. The combination of the delicate cottage cheese dumplings and the sweet, creamy milk creates a luscious and satisfying dessert that is beloved by many.