We love how Peda Ricotta Cheese is a sweet treat that merges classic Indian flavors with a creamy twist. It’s a modern spin on a time honored dessert and it’s perfect for celebrations or when we crave something irresistible.
We start by gently cooking ricotta and sugar until they reach a fudgelike consistency. This technique creates a melt in your mouth texture that’s light yet decadent. Our version is simple enough to whip up for a quick indulgence or to impress guests at a festive gathering.
Peda Ricotta Cheese Recipe
Quick Reference
| Measurement | Data |
|---|---|
| Servings | 8 |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
Ingredients
- 1 pound ricotta cheese (drained)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Warm a nonstick pan on low heat.
- Add ricotta cheese. Stir gently to ensure a smooth texture.
- Sprinkle sugar into the pan. Stir to combine as the cheese melts gradually.
- Continue stirring for about 10 minutes. The mixture will transform into a slightly thick paste with a fudgy consistency.
- Add ghee for a richer taste. Stir to incorporate.
- If we want a boost of aroma, stir in cardamom powder and saffron strands.
- Keep stirring until the mixture begins to pull away from the pan.
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Scoop out small portions. Roll into round shapes and flatten gently to form peda.
- Garnish with saffron strands.
We can enjoy these Peda Ricotta Cheese treats during festivals or whenever we crave a light yet indulgent dessert.
Tools And Equipment
We rely on a heavy-bottomed pan to cook our Peda Ricotta Cheese mixture evenly and prevent scorching. We keep a silicone spatula handy to scrape the bottom of the pan. We measure each ingredient accurately with our measuring cups and measuring spoons. We also use a flat plate or tray for shaping and cooling the pedas. If we want to whisk our ricotta for a smoother consistency, we depend on a whisk.
| Tool or Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy-bottomed Pan | Ensures even heat distribution and minimizes the risk of scorching. |
| Silicone Spatula | Helps scrape the pan and stir the mixture without sticking. |
| Measuring Cups | Allows precise measurement of ricotta and sugar. |
| Measuring Spoons | Keeps our spice additions exact and well-balanced. |
| Whisk (optional) | Provides a smoother texture if we prefer to whisk the ricotta. |
| Flat Plate or Tray | Facilitates quick cooling and shaping of pedas. |
Ingredients
We gather these items to create our Peda Ricotta Cheese for 8 servings. Each component plays an important role in achieving a smooth texture and a fudge-like consistency.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese (drained) | 1 pound |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Cardamom powder (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Saffron strands (optional) | a pinch |
We make sure to drain the ricotta thoroughly so the moisture content is minimal. This step prevents watery residue during cooking. We recommend using fresh ricotta cheese for a richer taste. We prefer granulated sugar for easy melting and even sweetness. The optional additions of cardamom powder and saffron strands provide a fragrant twist to our Peda Ricotta Cheese and enhance its festive charm. We include a small measure of ghee to boost flavor and create a glossy finish.
Instructions
Our Peda Ricotta Cheese is a breeze to create. We follow these steps for a fudgy, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Prep
- Drain the Ricotta thoroughly by placing it in a fine-mesh strainer for a few minutes. This step removes excess moisture.
- Measure out the granulated sugar, cardamom powder (if using), and ghee so they are ready to add.
- Keep a silicone spatula and a heavy-bottomed pan at hand.
Cook
- Warm the heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add the drained ricotta, sugar, and ghee. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Continue stirring for about 15 to 20 minutes until the mixture thickens to a fudge-like consistency.
- If using cardamom powder or saffron strands, sprinkle them in and stir gently for enhanced flavor.
| Cook Step | Approx. Time |
|---|---|
| Stir mixture on medium heat | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Add optional aromatics | Final 2 minutes |
Shape And Garnish
- Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool until it is warm enough to handle.
- Grease your palms with a little ghee. Take small portions and shape into round, flattened pedas.
- Arrange them on a flat plate or tray. Press a few saffron strands on each piece for a festive look.
Storage Tips
We store Peda Ricotta Cheese in a sealed container to preserve its soft texture and light flavor. We line the container with parchment paper if we need to stack the pedas. We keep them away from moist spots or strong odors to maintain their aroma.
We check for dryness each day so the pedas do not lose moisture or become crumbly. We let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving and avoid repeated temperature changes. We prefer to keep them cold once they have been chilled.
| Storage Method | Best Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (40°F) | Up to 5 days |
| Freezer (0°F) | Up to 1 month |
We always label our container with the date so we know how long they have been stored. We thaw frozen pedas in the fridge overnight before serving. If we find any change in color or odor we discard them.
Conclusion
We love how this fusion dessert brings both tradition and simplicity to our table so it’s a perfect treat for any gathering. Our favorite part is the smooth texture that pairs perfectly with subtle sweetness plus a hint of festive charm. Whether you serve it as a light snack or a celebratory indulgence it’s sure to please any sweet tooth.
We invite you to experiment with flavors and garnishes so you can personalize every batch. Enjoy the process and share these pedas with friends and family to sprinkle a little extra cheer into your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peda Ricotta Cheese?
Peda Ricotta Cheese is a soft, fudge-like dessert combining creamy ricotta with sweet flavors often found in traditional Indian sweets. It’s cooked in a heavy-bottomed pan with sugar and optional spices, such as cardamom or saffron, to create a light yet indulgent treat. Perfect for festive events or simple cravings.
How do I achieve the perfect texture?
Drain your ricotta thoroughly before cooking to remove excess moisture. Stir constantly in a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent scorching and help the mixture thicken to a fudge-like consistency. Once shaped, the pedas should hold their form but remain soft and creamy.
Can I skip the cardamom or saffron?
Yes, both are optional flavor enhancers. If you prefer the dessert without these spices, simply omit them. You can also experiment with other flavorings like vanilla extract or rose essence for a different taste. Regardless of the choice, the creamy sweetness of Peda Ricotta Cheese remains intact.
Do I need any special equipment?
You’ll need a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning. A silicone spatula is helpful for scraping and stirring. Measuring cups and spoons keep the ratios accurate, and a whisk can help smooth out the ricotta. Finally, a flat tray is ideal for cooling and shaping.
How should I store leftover pedas?
Place them in a sealed container lined with parchment paper to maintain softness. They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and about a month in the freezer. Thaw frozen pedas in the fridge overnight before serving, and discard any with changes in color, odor, or taste.
Are these pedas only for special festivals?
Not at all! While they’re a popular choice for festive celebrations, you can enjoy these pedas anytime you want a sweet indulgence. They’re quick to make and versatile, making them perfect for casual treats, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Add your favorite garnishes for a personal touch.
Why is draining the ricotta so important?
Excess water can dull the flavor and prevent the dessert from achieving a thick, fudgy consistency. Properly draining ricotta before cooking ensures the pedas develop a rich taste and hold their shape better. This simple step makes a big difference in texture and overall dessert quality.