Chum Chum – Bengali Dessert
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk, paneer
- 2 cups sugar
- 5 cups water
- 1/8 tsp cardamom powder
Ingredients for different For Different Garnishing
- 1 tbs pistachio
- 1 tbs coconut powder
- 2 tbsp cream
Instructions
- Prepare paneer according to recipe “How to Make Paneer”. To test if sufficient water has been removed out of the paneer, take a little piece of paneer in your palm and rub with your fingers. You should be able to make a firm but smooth ball, after 15-20 seconds of rubbing.
- Place the drained paneer on a dry, clean surface and knead it for 3 to 4 minutes until it rolls into smooth soft dough. If the paneer is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water.
- Divide the paneer dough into 8 equal parts and roll each one into a smooth oval shaped ball.
- For the syrup: In a wide saucepan, bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Add sugar and stir to dissolve completely. Use a large pan as the Chum Chums will double in volume while cooking in the syrup.
- Add the paneer balls to the syrup and bring it back to a boil. Then turn down the heat to medium and cover the pot. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Open the pot cover, turn the chum chums over and cook for another 15 minutes. Check to see if the chum chums appear firm but sponge-like (with little holes on the surface). Turn off the heat and let sit for 10 more minutes.
- Remove the chum chums from the syrup. Serve chill!
- Serving With Pistachios: Cover every Chum Chum with a few pieces of sliced pistachios
- Serving with Coconut Powder: Roll the chum chums in dry coconut
- Serving with Malai (cream): Boil the milk over medium heat until it reduces to ½ its volume. Stir the milk continuously so it doesn’t burn on the bottom of the pot. Add sugar, and cardamom powder. Stir for 2 minutes, and then turn off the heat. While milk is still warm pour 1 tablespoon over every Chum Chum and top with a few pieces of pistachios.
How to make Chum Chum Recipe: Chum Chum Sweet
Chum Chum is a popular Indian sweet delicacy that originates from the state of West Bengal. This soft and spongy dessert is made from paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and soaked in a sugar syrup flavored with saffron and cardamom.
Chum Chum is known for its delicate texture, subtle sweetness, and vibrant colors, making it a delightful treat for special occasions and celebrations.
Chum Chum are like a luxurious and bigger version of rasgulla although made with richer ingredients such as pistachio and other dry fruits along with garnishing done using cream.
Other Dessert Variations:
- Ras Malai: Rasmalai is a Bengali dessert consisting of soft paneer balls immersed in chilled creamy milk. Like Rasgullas, Rasmalai is also made with homemade cheese known as “paneer” or “chana”. Instead of being soaked in sugar syrup like Rasgullas, Rasmalai is soaked in sweet, flavored milk.
- Kala Jamun: Kala Jamun is a delicious dessert very similar to Gulab Jamun. Kala jamun is an exotic sweet dish served on special occasions. Kala Jamuns have a very unique texture as they are chewy outside and grainy inside.
- Bengali Rasgulla: Bengali Rasgullas are homemade paneer (Cottage cheese) sweet dish, round paneer balls soaked in sugar syrup. This is a delicacy from the state of Bengal, these are very light and delicious, you can never go wrong with Bangali Rasgulla.
- Jalebi: Jalebi is a warm, crispy, delicious treat. It can best be described as funnel cake. In many places jalebi is still served as a breakfast treat like pancakes. It is a treat to have jalebi and kachori for a hearty breakfast.
Tips for Making Perfect Chum Chum:
Use Fresh Paneer: Use fresh and homemade paneer for the best texture and flavor in your Chum Chum. Homemade paneer is softer and creamier than store-bought varieties and yields a more delicate and spongy dessert.
Knead the Paneer Well: Knead the paneer dough thoroughly to ensure a smooth and uniform texture. Proper kneading helps to remove excess moisture from the paneer and creates a soft and pliable dough that’s easy to shape into rolls.
Soak in Sugar Syrup: Allow the paneer rolls to soak in the sugar syrup for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption. The longer the Chum Chum sits in the syrup, the softer and more flavorful it will become.
Garnish Creatively: Get creative with your garnishes and decorations. Sprinkle chopped nuts, edible silver leaf (varak), or dried rose petals on top of your Chum Chum for an elegant and festive presentation.
FAQs about Chum Chum:
Can I make Chum Chum without paneer?
While paneer is the traditional main ingredient in Chum Chum, you can experiment with alternative fillings such as khoya (reduced milk solids) or ricotta cheese for a different texture and flavor profile.
How long does Chum Chum stay fresh?
Chum Chum can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh within the first day or two for optimal taste and texture.
Can I freeze Chum Chum?
While Chum Chum can be frozen, its texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, wrap the Chum Chum tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw the Chum Chum in the refrigerator before serving.
Is Chum Chum gluten-free?
Yes, Chum Chum is gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. However, be cautious of cross-contamination if you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease.
How did Chum Chum got its name?
The name chum chum comes from Bengal, where it originated as a sweet treat. The name mimics the sound “nom nom,” which is fitting because the sweet is soft and fluffy, and you might munch on it like that.
Chum Chum is a delightful and versatile Indian dessert that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or indulging in a sweet treat. With its soft and spongy texture, subtle sweetness, and endless variations, Chum Chum is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Whether enjoyed as a festive dessert or as a comforting indulgence, Chum Chum is a beloved sweet delicacy that’s cherished by people of all ages.
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