Peda is a classic Indian sweet that’s loved for its rich, creamy texture and delicate sweetness. Traditionally made with khoya, we’ve given this beloved treat a fresh twist by using ricotta cheese. This not only adds a smooth, velvety consistency but also makes the recipe easier and quicker to prepare without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
To prepare our Peda With Ricotta Cheese, we use carefully selected ingredients that balance traditional flavors with a creamy modern twist. Below is a detailed list of everything we need to create this delightful dessert.
For the Peda
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (fresh and well-drained to avoid excess moisture)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder (for that classic aroma and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons milk powder (enhances texture and richness)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter, adds smoothness and richness)
For Garnishing
- 10-12 pistachios (sliced thinly for color and crunch)
- 10-12 almonds (slivered for texture)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional, soaked in 1 tsp warm milk for aroma and color)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | Creamy base replacing khoya |
| Powdered sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetening agent |
| Cardamom powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
| Milk powder | 2 tablespoons | Improves texture and richness |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon | Adds smoothness and flavor |
| Pistachios (sliced) | 10-12 | Garnishing |
| Almonds (slivered) | 10-12 | Garnishing |
| Saffron strands | Pinch (optional) | Enhances aroma and visual appeal |
These ingredients together help us create a perfectly balanced Peda With Ricotta Cheese — creamy, sweet, and delicately flavored with cardamom and a touch of traditional garnish.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our delicious Peda With Ricotta Cheese efficiently and perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Here is what we need in our kitchen:
- Non-stick pan: For cooking the ricotta mixture evenly without sticking or burning.
- Mixing bowls: To combine and mix ingredients smoothly.
- Wooden spatula or silicone spoon: Useful for stirring the mixture gently and continuously.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measurements ensures the perfect consistency and flavor.
- Sieve or fine mesh strainer: To sift powdered sugar and milk powder for a lump-free batter.
- Plate or tray: For shaping and setting the pedas after cooking.
- Garnishing tools: Such as a knife or chopping board for slicing pistachios, almonds, and handling saffron strands.
- Heat-resistant gloves or cloth: To handle hot pans safely during cooking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Non-stick pan | Cook ricotta mixture without sticking or burning |
| Mixing bowls | Combine ingredients thoroughly |
| Wooden spatula | Stir mixture gently and continuously |
| Measuring spoons | Ensure precise ingredient amounts |
| Sieve | Sift dry ingredients for smooth texture |
| Plate or tray | Shape and set finished pedas |
| Garnishing tools | Prepare nuts and saffron for decoration |
| Heat-resistant gloves | Handle hot equipment safely |
Having these tools on hand allows us to focus on perfecting the taste and texture of our Peda With Ricotta Cheese without interruption. This setup guarantees a smooth cooking process and beautiful presentation every time.
Prep Work
Before diving into the cooking process, preparing the ingredients meticulously ensures a smooth experience and enhances the final flavor and texture of our Peda With Ricotta Cheese. Let’s get everything perfectly ready.
Preparing the Ricotta Cheese
To achieve the ideal creamy consistency, start by draining excess whey from the ricotta cheese. Place the ricotta in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a bowl and let it rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step prevents the peda from becoming too wet and helps maintain its rich texture.
Next, gently transfer the drained ricotta to a mixing bowl. Use a fork or whisk to break up any lumps and create a smooth, homogeneous base. This smoothness is crucial for the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the peda.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements are key to balancing sweetness and texture. We recommend preparing the ingredients with precision.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta Cheese | 1 cup (drained) | Smooth and lump-free |
| Powdered Sugar | ½ cup | Sifted for even mixing |
| Milk Powder | ¼ cup | Adds thickness and richness |
| Cardamom Powder | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons | For roasting and binding |
| Garnishes (Pistachios, Almonds, Saffron) | As desired | Finely chopped and soaked |
Before starting to cook, we suggest setting all measured ingredients within easy reach to streamline the process and prevent interruptions. This preparation reinforces a seamless cooking flow and assures consistent results every time we make our Peda With Ricotta Cheese.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect Peda With Ricotta Cheese—creamy, sweet, and delightfully textured.
Making the Peda Mixture
- Drain Ricotta Cheese: Place the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh strainer for 15–20 minutes to remove excess whey. We need a thick, creamy base for the mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the prepared ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, milk powder, and cardamom powder.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a wooden spatula or silicone spoon to blend the ingredients until smooth and uniform.
- Add Ghee: Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a non-stick pan over low heat. Pour in the ricotta mixture and cook gently while stirring continuously.
- Cook the Mixture: Cook for 8–10 minutes on low heat until the mixture thickens and begins to leave the sides of the pan. This indicates the right consistency for shaping.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta Cheese | 2 cups | Creamy base |
| Powdered Sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetness |
| Milk Powder | ¼ cup | Texture & richness |
| Cardamom Powder | ½ tsp | Flavor |
| Ghee | 1 tbsp | Cooking medium & aroma |
Shaping the Pedas
- Cool the Mixture: Transfer the cooked mixture to a greased plate or tray. Let it cool for 10 minutes but keep it warm enough to shape.
- Grease Your Hands: Lightly coat your palms with ghee to prevent sticking.
- Divide and Roll: Pinch off small portions about the size of a walnut. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, round balls.
- Flatten Slightly: Gently press the balls into flat discs about ½ inch thick to form the classic peda shape.
- Add Garnish: Press a pistachio, almond sliver, or a few strands of saffron onto the center of each peda for an appealing finish.
Cooking the Pedas (If Applicable)
- Since the mixture is cooked during the making stage, no additional cooking is required after shaping.
- If you wish to enhance shelf life, keep pedas refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Peda With Ricotta Cheese, we recommend serving them in ways that enhance their rich, creamy texture and delicate sweetness. Here are our top Serving Suggestions to make your Peda experience memorable:
1. Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature
For the best texture and flavor, allow the Peda to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the sweetness mellow and the creamy texture settle perfectly. Alternatively, serving at room temperature brings out a softer, melt-in-the-mouth feel.
2. Plate Presentation
Arrange the Peda on a beautiful serving platter or a decorative plate. Use small doilies or banana leaves underneath each piece to add an authentic and festive look. Garnish with slivered pistachios, almonds, or saffron strands to add color and a mild crunch.
3. Pairing with Beverages
The subtle sweetness of Ricotta Cheese Peda pairs wonderfully with traditional beverages:
- Masala chai – the spice complements the cardamom flavor of the Peda.
- Warm milk with a hint of saffron – enhances the creamy notes.
- Fresh fruit juices like mango or pomegranate balance the richness.
4. As a Festive Dessert
Peda is ideal for celebrations and religious occasions. Place the sweets in small decorative boxes or trays if gifting. Consider incorporating edible silver leaf (varak) on each piece for an elegant festive touch.
Quick Reference Table: Serving Suggestions Overview
| Serving Style | Details | Ideal Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Chilled | Refrigerate 1 hour before serving | Warm masala chai, saffron milk |
| Room Temperature | Serve soft and creamy | Fresh mango or pomegranate juice |
| Presentation | Decorative platter, garnished with nuts, saffron, edible silver leaf | Festive gifting and religious events |
“Serving is just as important as preparation when it comes to desserts like our Peda With Ricotta Cheese. Small touches elevate the experience.”*
By following these suggestions, we ensure our Peda delights both the eyes and the palate, offering a truly authentic and luxurious Indian sweet treat.
Storage Tips
To keep our Peda With Ricotta Cheese fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here are the best practices to follow:
Refrigeration
- Place the pedas in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any fridge odors or drying out.
- Store the container in the refrigerator at a temperature around 36°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C).
- Pedas stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated properly.
- Before serving, allow the pedas to come to room temperature or serve chilled, based on preference.
Freezing
If we want to extend the shelf life, freezing is a reliable option:
- Wrap each peda individually with plastic wrap or parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Place the wrapped pedas in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag.
- Freeze at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
- Consume within 1 month for the best taste and texture.
- To thaw, transfer pedas to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
Avoiding Common Storage Mistakes
| Mistake | Effect | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leaving pedas uncovered | Pedas dry out and lose moisture | Use airtight containers |
| Storing at room temperature too long | Pedas spoil quickly due to dairy content | Refrigerate after serving or within 2 hours |
| Freezing without wrapping | Pedas stick together and texture deteriorates | Wrap individually before freezing |
“Proper storage not only preserves freshness but also maintains the signature creamy texture and delicate flavors of our Peda With Ricotta Cheese.”
By following these guidelines, we ensure every bite of our homemade peda remains as delightful as when freshly made.
Conclusion
Trying out this Peda with Ricotta Cheese recipe brings a fresh take on a beloved traditional sweet. The simplicity of using ricotta not only saves time but also delivers a creamy, luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
With the right ingredients, tools, and a bit of care, we can create a dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence. Serving it beautifully and storing it properly ensures every bite stays just as delightful as the first.
Let’s enjoy making and sharing this delicious fusion treat that blends tradition with modern ease effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peda with ricotta cheese?
Peda with ricotta cheese is a modern version of the traditional Indian sweet, replacing khoya with ricotta. This substitution creates a creamy texture and simplifies the cooking process while maintaining the classic sweet flavor.
What ingredients are needed to make Peda with ricotta cheese?
Key ingredients include ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cardamom powder, milk powder, ghee, and optional garnishes like pistachios, almonds, and saffron.
What equipment do I need to prepare Peda efficiently?
You’ll need a non-stick pan, mixing bowls, a wooden spatula or silicone spoon, measuring cups and spoons, a sieve, a plate or tray for shaping, garnishing tools, and heat-resistant gloves.
How should I prepare ricotta cheese for making Peda?
Drain any excess whey from the ricotta cheese to achieve a creamy but firm consistency, ensuring a smooth base for the Peda mixture.
How do I shape the Peda after cooking?
Once the mixture has cooled, roll it into small balls, flatten them gently, and garnish with nuts or saffron before serving.
How should Peda be served for the best taste?
Serve Peda chilled or at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor. Pair it with beverages like masala chai or warm saffron milk.
What are the best storage tips for homemade Peda?
Store Pedas in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 36°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C) for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in a freezer-safe container.
Can Peda be made ahead for special occasions?
Yes, Pedas can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or frozen. Just follow storage guidelines to keep them fresh and flavorful.
What common mistakes should I avoid when storing Peda?
Avoid storing Pedas at room temperature for long periods to prevent drying out or spoilage. Use airtight containers and proper refrigeration or freezing methods.
Why use ricotta cheese instead of khoya in Peda?
Ricotta cheese makes the recipe simpler and adds creamy texture without compromising on the original flavor, making it easier and quicker to prepare.