Diwali, the festival of lights, brings joy, colors, and of course, delicious food. From sweets to savory dishes, milk-based ingredients like paneer, khoya, cream, and ghee form the backbone of many festive recipes. While these items are easily available in markets, adulterated products are increasingly common. Making them at home is not only safer but also adds a fresh, authentic taste to your dishes. Here’s how you can prepare five essential milk-based ingredients at home this Diwali.
1. Homemade Paneer
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Boil 1 liter of full-cream milk.
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Add lemon juice or vinegar to curdle the milk.
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Drain the liquid, rinse the curds with cold water, and place them in a muslin cloth.
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Squeeze well, tie, and hang for 1 hour.
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Your paneer is ready to make dishes like Shahi Paneer or paneer curries.
2. Fresh Khoya
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Pour 1 liter of milk into a pan and cook over medium heat until it reduces by half.
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Lower the heat and continue cooking until all water evaporates, leaving grainy milk.
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This homemade khoya can be used for gulab jamun, peda, barfi, and other festive sweets.
3. Homemade Cream
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Boil full-cream milk and let it cool.
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Once cooled, a layer of cream will form on top.
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Skim it off with a spoon and store in a bowl for 2–4 days.
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Use it to prepare rich dishes, gravies, or desserts.
4. Fresh Cheese
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Boil 1 liter of milk, add lemon juice, and mash it once it curdles.
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Strain the mixture and wrap it in a cloth.
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Place a heavy object on top for 4–5 hours to press.
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The longer you press, the firmer the cheese. Perfect for cheese balls, burgers, and pasta.
5. Pure Ghee
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Boil milk and let it cool, then collect the cream over a few days.
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Blend the cream with ice to separate the butter.
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Melt the butter on the stove, and the liquid fat that separates is pure ghee.
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Use it in sweets, savory dishes, or for Diwali lamps.
Making these ingredients at home ensures purity, freshness, and enhances the taste of your festive dishes. Celebrate Diwali with these homemade delights for a healthier and more flavorful festival.
