Bhapa Sondesh – Steamed Sondesh
A steamed Sondesh is a classic Bengali treat. It is a simple variation of the classic Sondesh, except steamed. Essentially is an Indian cheesecake of sorts. But nuanced and subtly flavored. As with a lot of Bengali desserts, it is about making good channa or fresh paneeer.
This version is flavored with orange and saffron. And I am finally getting back to posting on this site.
My Bhapa Sondesh Story
A somewhat restless and troubled week for me. The inaction with the election did not seem to help. I bought myself a virtual film festival pass and watched about 4 movies. All pretty good movies. While I miss what used be the normal life, I like having more virtual access to things. I connect and talk to more people via zoom across different parts of the world. And of course. application craziness continues in our house.
COVID fears still loom and do not go away. It is troubling to see the world again seeing ups and downs. All the second waves and of course for countries like the US and India, the first wave just does not end. Will things ever be resolved? Will things ever be the way they used to be? So many question that do not seem to have any answers. At least, the craziness of the election rhetoric will be behind us. For a little bit at any rate. No matter, what team one supports the last few weeks of fighting is just too divisive.
A few tips and tricks about the Bhapa Sondesh
So, down to the sondesh. It is probably a really easy confectionary once you make your own paneer or channa. I use the instant pot to steam it, cool and then cut into squares. Just like that. Easy and simple. If you are looking for a simple relatively healthy dessert this one is it. Just three things to do with it,
- Do all the paneer to drain well.
- Knead the paneer (I use a food processor) do not over knead.
- All the steamed sondesh to cool, before unmolding and serving.
If you like this recipe and want more ideas, do join my Indian Instant Pot Facebook group and Legume Love Group. Of course Instant Indian is ready for order, joining its siblings The Bengali Five Spice Chronicles and Spices and Seasons.
Bhapa Sondesh is a steamed easy to make Bengali sweet.
Ingredients
- 3/4 gallon whole milk
- 1 to 2 fresh limes
- Zest and Juice of an orange
- 1/2 cup sugar (can be more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron strands
- Sliced almonds to garnish
Instructions
- Heat the milk in a heavy bottomed pot (or the instant pot in the saute mode) and bring to a rolling boil.
- Turn off the heat and squeeze in the lime juice, about 1 lime at a time until the milk curdles and separates from the whey.
- Drain in a cheese cloth lined colander. You can save the whey if you wish. Let the paneer drain for a few hours to make sure that there is no excess water.
- Place the fresh paneer in a mixing bowl or food processor. Add in the zest, orange juice, sugar and the saffron strands and whip in the food processor for about 30 to 45 seconds.
- Grease a round pan and place the whipped paneer into the pan and cover with foil.
- Add 2 cups of water in the instant pot. Place the pan with the paneer over a trivet and steam (without pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the sondesh to cool for at least 45 minutes.
- Gently remove and unmold the sondesh.
- Cut into cubes and garnish with almonds if desired and serve cool