Milk peda is a popular Indian sweet that melts in your mouth, offering a delightful blend of milk, sugar, and subtle spices. Traditionally made during festivals or special occasions, this dessert is not only delicious but also a symbol of hospitality and festivity. Today, we'll dive into making homemade milk peda with an easy, accessible method. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned cook, these 5 easy steps will guide you to the perfect milk peda right in your kitchen.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ghee (plus more for greasing)
- 1⁄4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron (optional, for color and flavor)
- Chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios (for garnish)
Ensuring you have all your ingredients at hand before starting will streamline your cooking process, reducing the chance of burning or undercooking the peda.
Step 2: Reduce the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour the milk and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the milk to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom.
Why Thick Bottomed Pan?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Even Heat Distribution | Prevents burning and ensures uniform cooking of the milk solids. |
| Heat Retention | Keeps the milk at a steady temperature, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency. |
| Durability | Can withstand long cooking times without damage. |
🍳 Note: Keep an eye on the milk as it reduces; unattended milk can easily boil over.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Ghee
After the milk reduces to about one-third of its original volume, stir in the sugar. Continue to cook on low heat, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely. Next, add 2 tablespoons of ghee to enrich the texture. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens.
Step 4: Flavor and Thicken
Add the cardamom powder and saffron if using. The mixture should now start to leave the sides of the pan, signaling it’s time to shape the pedas. This step is crucial for achieving the desired consistency and flavor.
Optional Variation
- Chocolate Peda: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder when you add the sugar for a delightful twist.
- Kesar Peda: Increase the saffron and add a dash of kesar (saffron) milk for a saffron-infused peda.
Step 5: Shape and Garnish
Grease your hands with ghee, take a small amount of the mixture, and shape it into round, flat pedas. Press a piece of nut into the center for decoration. Allow them to cool and set on a greased plate or tray.
✨ Note: For a more polished look, you can use a cookie cutter to shape the pedas uniformly.
Following these 5 easy steps will give you delicious, homemade milk pedas with a professional touch. This sweet not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also brings a sense of tradition and warmth into your home. Enjoy the process of making milk pedas, from simmering milk to tasting the sweet outcome, and remember that perfection comes with practice and patience. Each step is an opportunity to infuse your pedas with love and care, making them a treat worth savoring.
How long does it take to make milk peda at home?
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Making milk peda from scratch typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, including the time for the milk to reduce and the final shaping.
Can I store milk peda?
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Yes, store milk pedas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze them.
What if my peda mixture is too sticky?
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If the mixture is too sticky, continue cooking on low heat until more moisture evaporates, or add a bit more ghee to help bind the mixture. Remember to stir constantly to prevent burning.
