**Chhanar Bhapa** (Steamed Cottage Cheese) is a delicious Bengali dessert made from fresh chhena (paneer/cottage cheese), sugar, and cardamom, steamed to perfection. Here’s how you can make it:
### Ingredients:
- 250 grams fresh chhena (cottage cheese/paneer)
- 1/2 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp milk powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- A few saffron strands (optional, soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk)
- Chopped pistachios, almonds, or raisins for garnish (optional)
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chhena**:
- If you’re using store-bought paneer, crumble it finely. If you are making fresh chhena, ensure it’s soft and smooth. To make chhena at home, boil milk, curdle it with lemon juice or vinegar, strain, and let it sit for a while until the whey is drained.
2. **Mix the Ingredients**:
- In a mixing bowl, mash the chhena until it becomes smooth and lump-free.
- Add condensed milk, sugar, ghee, cardamom powder, and milk powder (if using). Mix everything well until it forms a smooth, consistent mixture.
- If using saffron, add the soaked saffron strands with the milk for extra flavor and color.
3. **Prepare for Steaming**:
- Grease a steel or aluminum bowl, small molds, or a plate with ghee to prevent sticking.
- Pour the chhena mixture into the greased bowl or molds and spread it evenly.
4. **Steam the Chhanar Bhapa**:
- Place the bowl or molds in a steamer or in a large pot with some water at the bottom. Cover the pot with a tight lid to trap the steam.
- Steam on medium heat for about 20-25 minutes until the chhena sets and is firm to the touch. You can check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
5. **Cool and Garnish**:
- Once done, remove from the steamer and allow it to cool completely.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios, almonds, or raisins for added texture and flavor.
6. **Serve**:
- Once cooled, slice and serve the **Chhanar Bhapa** as a dessert.
Enjoy this rich and delectable Bengali sweet!
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