"Authentic Mishti Doi Recipe – Classic Bengali Sweet Yogurt"

 

Mishti Doi is a classic Bengali dessert made with sweetened, caramelized yogurt. It has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 liter full-fat milk
• 200 grams jaggery (or sugar)
• 2 tablespoons yogurt (curd) (for fermentation)
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

Step 1: Reduce the Milk

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the milk on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
2. Reduce it to about ¾ of its original volume for a richer consistency.

Step 2: Prepare the Jaggery Syrup

1. In another pan, add the jaggery with 2 tablespoons of water and melt it on low heat.
2. Once melted, let it cool slightly before adding it to the milk. (If using sugar, you can caramelize it for a deeper flavor.)

Step 3: Combine and Set the Yogurt

1. Mix the jaggery syrup into the warm reduced milk, stirring continuously. Ensure it is just warm, not hot, to avoid killing the live cultures.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt and mix well.

Step 4: Fermentation

1. Pour the mixture into earthen pots or a container, cover it, and keep it in a warm place for 6–8 hours (or overnight) to set.
2. Once set, refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish with chopped nuts or saffron for extra richness.
• Serve chilled for the best taste.