Peyara Bhog
Peyara Bhog is a traditional Bengali dessert made with guava, known as 'peyara' in Bengali. This dish traces its roots back to the cultural kitchens of Bengal, where unique flavors are cherished. Enjoyed during festive occasions, Peyara Bhog is a sweet delicacy that brings warmth and sweetness to the table, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Bengal.
Ingredients
- Guava (Peyara) - 4 ripe
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Milk - 2 cups
- Cardamom - 4 pods
- Cashews - 10, chopped
- Raisins - 10
- Ghee - 2 tablespoons
- Saffron - a pinch
- Water - 1 cup
Preparation
Step 1: Prepping the Guavas
Begin by washing the guavas thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel the skin and cut the guavas into halves, removing the seeds. Slice them into small chunks. Set aside for the cooking process.
Step 2: Infusing Saffron
In a small bowl, add a pinch of saffron threads and soak them in a tablespoon of warm milk. Allow it to infuse while you begin the cooking process.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Making the Base
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and add ghee. Once hot, add the cashews and raisins, frying until they are golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cooking the Guavas
In the same pan, add the sliced guavas and sauté for a few minutes until slightly softened. Add one cup of water and sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 5: Thickening with Milk
Add the remaining milk to the pan, along with crushed cardamom pods. Allow it to simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally. Let it cook until the mixture becomes creamy and the guavas are tender.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Add the infused saffron milk to the pan, giving a gentle stir to mix it well. Toss in the fried cashews and raisins. Cook for another minute and switch off the heat.
Serving Suggestions
Peyara Bhog is best enjoyed warm, allowing the sweet and saffron aromas to elevate the culinary experience. Serve it in small bowls and garnish with a few more cashews and raisins on top. This dessert can be savored on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich and indulgent dessert.
Set a cooking timer for any step that requires special attention to ensure your recipe is perfectly timed. Enjoy this Bengali delight with friends and family during festivals or as a special treat after a hearty meal.