Hare Krishna Sandesh is a delicate and light Bengali sweet made from fresh paneer, often flavored with cardamom or saffron.
This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for festivals and special occasions and is a favorite offering to Krishna.
Serving Suggestions
Hare Krishna Sandesh can be enjoyed with:
- Saffron: Add a few strands of saffron for a touch of luxury.
- Pistachios: Garnish with chopped pistachios for added richness.
These serving suggestions enhance the taste of meals and foster a sense of community and togetherness when shared with fellow devotees.
Recipe Yield
This recipe makes approximately 12 sandesh pieces. Serve them chilled for the best taste and texture.
PrintSandesh Recipe
Hare Krishna Sandesh is a light and satisfying dessert, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This sandesh recipe uses fresh paneer and sugar to create a delicate and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, preparing and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces 1x
- Category: Desserts & Sweets
- Method: Cooking, Shaping
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Sandesh:
- 2 cups fresh paneer (chhena) (240g)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (50g)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few strands of saffron soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Paneer: Crumble the fresh paneer (chhena) and knead it with your hands until it becomes smooth and soft. This may take about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Sandesh Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the kneaded paneer, powdered sugar, and cardamom powder. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan. This process may take about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Saffron: Stir in the saffron milk and mix well. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Shape the Sandesh: While the mixture is still warm, take small portions and shape them into round or oval pieces using your hands. Place the sandesh pieces on a plate and garnish with chopped pistachios if desired.
- Serve Chilled: Allow the sandesh to cool completely in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
- Variation: Add a few drops of rose water for a fragrant twist.
- Storage: Store any leftover sandesh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg