As the festival of Diwali is round the corner, I took some time out last weekend to attempt and make Pedas for the first time. It turned out better than I had expected. Traditionally Pedas are made from Khoya. However, I used the quicker process with a combination of milk powder and milk to reduce the cook time but nonetheless gave a great flavour. The light yellow colour came from the soaked saffron strands. I also added rose water for an extra depth of flavour and after taste. I have topped them with pistachio nuts but you can always substitute this with almonds or even cashews.
If you do try this recipe, share it on Instagram and tag us. Follow us on @kpfoodheaven for latest updates on our recipes and posts!
Total cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8-10 pieces (depending on the size you want)
Ingredients
- 120 ml whole milk
- 120 gms full fat milk powder (unsweetened – if you have sweetened, you can use it too but adjust the sugar by taste at the end)
- 24 gms powdered sugar (i powdered granulated sugar in a blender but you can use icing sugar as well)
- 5-6 saffrons strands crushed and soaked in 1½ tbsp warm milk for 15 minutes
- ½ tsp cardamom powder
- Pinch of salt
- 10 pistachio halves for garnish (or any alternative nuts of choice)
- 2 tbsp ghee
- 1 tbsp rose water (optional)
Method
- In a non-stick pan, heat 1 tbsp ghee.
- Add the full fat milk to it.
- As the milk starts to bubble, add the milk powder and stir with a wooden spoon on a medium heat to remove any lumps.
4. As the mixture starts to thicken, add the milk soaked saffron and mix.
5. Keep stirring until it becomes a mass and leaves the pan. While you stir you must ensure that you collect the mixture stuck to the side of the pan.
6. Add the remaining ½ tbsp of ghee and mix.
7. Transfer the mass to a bowl and leave it aside to cool for about 5-10 minutes. The mixture should be sufficiently cool so the sugar does not melt when added at the next stage.
8. Add the sugar and cardamom powder and mix to form a dough. Ensure that the sugar does not melt or it will become very sticky. You can add more sugar if you require it sweeter.
9. Divide into equal portions of desired size.
10. Using the palms of your hands, form a sphere and flatten it.
11. Slit a line through the centre and add a pistachio or any other nut of choice,
12. Enjoy your festive treat!
Hope you enjoy this!
Payal
P&K's Food Heaven 