Mango Bhapa Doi

Mango Bhapa Doi is a creamy and luscious dessert originating from the Bengali region of India. "Bhapa" means steamed, and "Doi" means yogurt in Bengali. This delicacy combines the tropical sweetness of mangoes with the rich, creamy texture of steamed yogurt, offering a unique twist on the traditional "Bhapa Doi."

History of Mango Bhapa Doi

The roots of Bhapa Doi trace back to the kitchens of Bengal, where yogurt-based sweets are highly cherished. This version, enhanced with mango, is a more contemporary adaptation, highlighting the region's abundant supply of flavorful mangoes and the traditional love for dairy-based sweets. Mango Bhapa Doi delights connoisseurs of rich desserts, as it combines cultural heritage with modern culinary innovation.

Ingredients

• Mango - 2 large ripe, pureed
• Yogurt - 2 cups full-fat
• Condensed Milk - 1 cup
• Milk - 1/2 cup
• Cardamom - 1 tsp ground
• Saffron - a few strands, soaked in 2 tbsp milk
• Sugar - optional, to taste
• Pistachios - 2 tbsp chopped, to garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by selecting ripe mangoes. Ensure they are sweet and aromatic. Peel the mangoes and cut them into cubes. Blend the mango cubes into a smooth puree. Check the sweetness of the puree and add sugar if necessary.

Step 2: Mixing the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, condensed milk, and milk. Whisk until smooth and consistent. Add the mango puree to the mixture. Stir in the cardamom and the saffron milk. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Preparing for Steaming

Transfer the mixture into a heatproof dish or ramekins. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent any water from dripping into the mixture during steaming. Set up a steamer or prepare a large pot with a steaming rack at the bottom. Pour water into the pot until just below the rack level.

Cooking Process

Step 4: Steaming the Bhapa Doi

Place the foil-covered dish onto the steaming rack. Cover the lid of the steamer or pot. Steam on medium heat for about 45 minutes. Refer to this cooking timer for precise timing. Check the readiness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Enjoying Mango Bhapa Doi

Step 5: Cooling and Serving

Once cooked, remove the dish from the steamer and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, as cooling enhances the dessert's flavors and sets it to a perfect texture.

Step 6: Garnishing and Presentation

Before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios and a few strands of saffron. Mango Bhapa Doi is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors of the fruity mango to marry with the creamy yogurt base, creating a harmonious balance between sweetness and tartness.

This delightful dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea after a light meal or serves as a sweet ending to a festive occasion.