By Paneer Barfi is a rich, creamy, and melt-in-the-mouth traditional Indian sweet that is loved by people of all ages. Made with fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese), milk solids, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, this delightful treat is perfect for festivals, celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. It is not only easy to prepare but also brings the authentic taste of Indian mithai right into your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Paneer Barfi along with useful tips to get the perfect texture and taste.
Ingredients:
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese) – 250 grams (freshly made or store-bought)
- Milk Powder – 1 cup (optional, for extra richness)
- Condensed Milk – ½ cup
- Full Cream Milk – ½ cup
- Sugar – ½ cup (adjust to taste)
- Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) – ½ teaspoon
- Ghee (Clarified Butter) – 2 tablespoons
- Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Pistachios, Cashews) – 2 tablespoons (for garnish)
- Silver Leaf (Varak) – optional, for decoration
How to Make Paneer Barfi:
Step 1: Preparing the Paneer
To make fresh paneer at home, bring 1 liter of full-fat milk to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar while stirring gently. The milk will curdle, separating the whey and paneer. Strain the mixture through a muslin cloth and rinse it under cold water to remove the sourness. Hang it for 30 minutes to remove excess water. Crumble the paneer finely before using it for the barfi.
Alternatively, you can use store-bought paneer, but ensure it is soft and fresh. Grate or crumble it finely for a smooth texture.
Step 2: Cooking the Mixture
- Heat a non-stick pan on low-medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of ghee.
- Add the crumbled or grated paneer into the pan. Sauté it lightly for about 2-3 minutes until it softens but does not brown.
- Add milk powder and condensed milk to the mixture. Stir continuously to combine well.
- Pour in the milk and keep stirring the mixture to avoid sticking or burning.
- Once the mixture becomes smooth, add sugar and continue cooking.
The mixture will slowly start to thicken as the sugar dissolves and moisture evaporates. Keep stirring regularly to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Flavoring and Thickening
- Add cardamom powder for a fragrant aroma and traditional taste.
- Keep stirring and cooking the mixture until it thickens enough to leave the sides of the pan. It should come together like a soft dough.
- This process takes around 15-20 minutes depending on the flame and quantity.
Step 4: Setting the Barfi
- Grease a square or rectangular tray or a plate with ghee.
- Pour the hot paneer mixture into the tray and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and press them gently into the surface. You can also add silver leaf (varak) for a festive touch.
- Let the barfi set for 2-3 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Cutting and Serving
Once the barfi is firm, cut it into squares or diamonds using a sharp knife. Serve the Paneer Barfi at room temperature or chilled.
Tips for the Perfect Paneer Barfi:
- Fresh Paneer: Always use fresh and soft paneer for the best texture.
- Consistency: Do not overcook the mixture, or the barfi may turn chewy instead of soft.
- Sweetness: Adjust sugar according to your taste preference. Condensed milk already adds sweetness, so you may need less sugar.
- Flavors: You can experiment with saffron strands or rose water for additional flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
While Paneer Barfi is an indulgent sweet, it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Paneer provides a good source of protein and calcium.
- Nuts offer healthy fats and vitamins.
- When consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced festive treat.
Conclusion:
Paneer Barfi is an exquisite and creamy dessert that brings joy to any celebration. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a popular choice for festivals like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, or Holi. Even beginners can master this recipe with little effort and create a homemade sweet that is far superior to store-bought versions. So, the next time you crave something sweet and traditional, try making this delicious Paneer Barfi and share the joy with family and friends.
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