Paan Blancmange is a unique and delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of traditional Indian paan with a creamy, custard-like texture. This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or celebration. Whether you are a fan of paan or just curious about new flavors, Paan Blancmange is worth trying.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Paan Blancmange is a fantastic way to explore the fusion of flavors. This dessert brings the aromatic and refreshing notes of paan leaves into a sweet, creamy dish. It’s a great dish to impress your guests and to enjoy a unique dessert experience. Easy to prepare at home, it’s perfect for festive occasions or just a fun dessert night with family.
How to Make Paan Blancmange
Making Paan Blancmange is simple and requires just a few steps. Here’s how you can create this delicious dessert:
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or china grass/agar-agar for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup condensed milk
- 1 tbsp gulkand (rose petal preserve)
- 1–2 paan (betel) leaves, finely ground
- A few drops of green food color (optional)
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Pistachios and dried rose petals (for garnish)
Directions
- Grind paan leaves with a little milk into a smooth paste.
- In a saucepan, mix milk, condensed milk, and paan paste.
- Dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of milk and add it to the pan.
- Cook on low heat until it thickens. Add gulkand and mix well.
- Pour into serving glasses and let it set in the refrigerator.
- Once chilled, top with whipped cream, pistachios, and rose petals.
How to Serve Paan Blancmange
Paan Blancmange is best served chilled. Arrange the glasses on a serving tray to showcase the beautiful layers. The whipped cream on top, along with the sprinkled pistachios and dried rose petals, adds an elegant touch. This dessert can be enjoyed as a delightful end to a meal or as a special treat during festivals.
How to Store Paan Blancmange
You can store Paan Blancmange in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the serving glasses with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh. Avoid freezing, as this can alter the texture of the dessert.
Tips to Make Paan Blancmange
- Use fresh paan leaves for the best flavor. If you can’t find them, look for fresh alternatives or consider giving it a twist with other aromatic herbs.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less condensed milk according to your taste.
- Be careful not to overcook the mixture; keep stirring until it thickens to achieve a smooth consistency.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try adding other flavors to your Paan Blancmange. A hint of cardamom or a splash of coconut milk can provide new dimensions to the dish. You could also substitute gulkand with other fruit preserves for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make Paan Blancmange ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Paan Blancmange a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
2. Is there a vegan version of this dessert?
Yes! You can use plant-based milk and replace the regular condensed milk with a vegan alternative. Also, use agar-agar instead of cornstarch.
3. What can I use instead of paan leaves?
If you can’t find paan leaves, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or basil, but keep in mind the flavor will differ.
