Ras Malai

Soft and spongy, Ras Malai is a delectable milk-based dessert, juicy and creamy at the same time. To prepare it at home, one will need milk, lemon juice, water, and sugar. Additionally, for the syrup, one needs milk, cardamom powder, saffron, sugar, and chopped pistachios.

Originating from the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent, today there’s some debate about where the sweet comes from. One claim is by KC Das Grandsons, confectioners in Bengal. They say their forefather Krishna Chandra Das invented the Ras Malai in the early 20th century. His father Nobin Chandra had moved to Calcutta and opened a sweet shop there in the 1770s. Wanting to invent a completely unique sweet, Nobin experimented, and allegedly made the Roshogolla. Inspired by this, years later, Ras Malai was born. However, Matri Bhandar’s Sen Brothers in Comilla, Bangladesh, also claim to be the original makers of the dessert.

Although all desserts are necessarily occasional indulgences, Ras Malai comes with a long list of health benefits. Since it's low in sugar and has no salt, it's a healthier option than other sweets. The milk makes it high in calcium, which is good for bones and teeth, and the resultant paneer it turns into is a great source of protein that helps maintain muscle mass. The dry fruits are rich in antioxidants and help boost the immune system. The dish also isn’t deep fried, and when consumed fresh, is a rather healthy option.