Rasagulla – A Timeless Indian Dessert


Rasgulla, also known as Rosogolla in Bengali, is a quintessential Indian sweet that holds a special place in every festive celebration and sweet lover’s heart. This iconic dessert is a hallmark of Bengali cuisine, yet its fame has transcended regional boundaries to become a symbol of India’s rich culinary heritage.

Rasgulla is made from freshly curdled milk (chhena) and semolina or flour, cooked in a simple sugar syrup. Its delicate flavor, combined with its melt-in-the-mouth texture, makes it an irresistible dessert. What sets Rasgulla apart is its simplicity; it uses minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum delight.

Whether served during festivals, family gatherings, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, Rasgulla is a dessert that brings joy with every bite. Its versatility also allows for creative variations that cater to diverse palates.

Ingredients:

  • Full cream milk - 1 Litre
  • Lemon juice - 3 tbsp.
  • Sugar - 3 ½ cups
  • Ice cubes - 12
  • Cardamom powder - a pinch
  • Nuts - for garnishing (Optional)


Method:

  • Heat the milk in a vessel.
  • When it starts boiling, keep in slow flame and add the lemon juice and mix properly.
  • Heat till the water separates and switch off the flame.
  • Now add the ice cubes and mix well. Ice cubes are added to stop the curdling immediately. It prevents the paneer to become hard and makes it soft.
  • Now take a metal strainer and line with cheese cloth and pour the curdled milk and strain.
  • Wash it well in the running water under the tap to remove the lemon flavor.
  • Then squeeze the excess water gently and hang it for 30 minutes without disturbing it.
  • After 30 minutes, take out the soft paneer in a bowl which will be crumbly.
  • Now knead this for 8-10 minutes gently to make it like a soft and smooth dough.
  • Now make smooth equal sized small balls and keep aside.
  • Heat water in a wide bottomed vessel and add sugar.
  • When the sugar syrup starts to bubble, add the balls carefully one by one.
  • The balls will go to the corner, move them to the middle.
  • Keep in medium flame and close with a lid and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Now it will be doubled in sized. Switch off the stove and keep for 10 minutes closed.
  • If you want you can now garnish with chopped nuts and cardamom powder.
  • After the sugar gets dissolved fully, simmer for 5 minutes.
  • You can chill the rasagullas and serve.

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