"Deliciously Creamy Peda Recipe with Ricotta Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making This Traditional Indian Sweet"

#### What is Peda?Peda is a popular Indian sweet that is often made during festivals and special occasions. It is known for its rich and creamy texture, and……

#### What is Peda?

Peda is a popular Indian sweet that is often made during festivals and special occasions. It is known for its rich and creamy texture, and it can be flavored in a variety of ways. Traditionally, peda is made using khoya (a type of reduced milk), but in this recipe, we will be using ricotta cheese to create a lighter, yet equally delicious version.

#### Why Use Ricotta Cheese?

Ricotta cheese is a fresh cheese that is soft and creamy, making it an excellent substitute for khoya in peda recipes. It has a mild flavor that blends well with various ingredients, allowing the sweetness and spices to shine through. Additionally, using ricotta cheese can save time, as it requires no cooking down like khoya does.

#### Ingredients for Peda Recipe with Ricotta Cheese

To make this delectable peda recipe with ricotta cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

- Ricotta Cheese (2 cups)

- Sugar (3/4 cup, adjust to taste)

- Cardamom Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

- Chopped Nuts (1/4 cup, such as pistachios or almonds)

- Ghee (2 tablespoons, for cooking)

- Saffron Strands (optional, for garnish)

- Milk (2 tablespoons, to adjust consistency)

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Ricotta Cheese**: If you are using store-bought ricotta, ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture. You can also make your own by heating milk and adding lemon juice until it curdles, then straining it.

2. **Cook the Ricotta**: In a non-stick pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the ricotta cheese and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously. This helps to evaporate excess moisture and gives the peda a firmer texture.

3. **Add Sugar and Flavorings**: Once the ricotta has cooked down, add the sugar and continue to stir. The sugar will melt and combine with the ricotta to create a smooth mixture. Add the cardamom powder and mix well.

4. **Incorporate Nuts**: Stir in the chopped nuts, reserving a few for garnishing later. Continue to cook the mixture until it starts to leave the sides of the pan, which usually takes about 5 more minutes.

5. **Shape the Peda**: Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Grease your hands with a little ghee and take small portions of the mixture to shape into round discs or balls, as per your preference.

6. **Garnish**: Place the shaped pedas on a plate and garnish with the reserved chopped nuts and saffron strands if using. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

#### Enjoying Your Peda

These pedas made with ricotta cheese are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them as a sweet treat after meals or share them with friends and family during festive occasions.

### Conclusion

Incorporating ricotta cheese into your peda recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy this traditional Indian sweet with a modern twist. The creamy texture and delightful flavors make these pedas a hit for any gathering. So why not give this peda recipe ricotta cheese a try and indulge in the sweet, rich flavors of India?