Paneer Katri: A Sweet Symphony of Richness and Flavor

Introduction: 

Paneer Katri is a delectable Indian sweet that combines the lusciousness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the sweetness of sugar and the fragrant notes of cardamom. This melt-in-the-mouth delicacy is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful addition to festive occasions and celebrations. In this article, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of crafting Paneer Katri, bringing the essence of traditional Indian sweets to your home.

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Ingredients:

For the Paneer Mixture:

2 cups paneer, crumbled

1 cup khoya (reduced milk solids)

1 cup powdered sugar

1/2 cup milk powder

1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)

1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Chopped nuts for garnish (almonds, pistachios)

For Sugar Syrup:

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup water

1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

A few saffron strands (optional)

Instructions:

Making the Paneer Mixture:

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over low-medium heat.

Add crumbled paneer and khoya, stirring continuously to avoid sticking.

Cook until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.

Add powdered sugar, milk powder, cardamom powder, and saffron strands. Mix well.

Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture forms a soft, pliable dough-like consistency.

Shaping the Paneer Katri:

Transfer the paneer mixture onto a greased plate or tray.

Flatten the mixture with a spatula or your hands to form an even layer.

Sprinkle chopped nuts on top and gently press them into the mixture.

Allow the mixture to cool for a few hours until it sets.

Preparing the Sugar Syrup:

In a separate pan, combine sugar and water for the sugar syrup.

Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Add cardamom powder and saffron strands, bringing the syrup to a boil.

Simmer for a few minutes until the syrup attains a slightly sticky consistency.

Cutting and Soaking the Paneer Katri:

Once the paneer mixture has set, cut it into square or diamond-shaped pieces.

Immerse the paneer katri pieces into the warm sugar syrup, ensuring they are well-coated.

Allow the paneer katri to soak in the syrup for at least 2-3 hours, absorbing the sweetness.

Garnishing and Serving:

Garnish the paneer katri with additional chopped nuts.

Serve at room temperature and enjoy the sweet, rich flavors of this traditional Indian delicacy.

Paneer Katri is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it a cherished sweet in Indian households. Share this delightful treat with friends and family during festive occasions or savor it as a special homemade indulgence.