Table of Contents
1. Introduction – What is Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh?
If you are a lover of Indian desserts or traditional kheer recipes, then Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh is a must‑try treat.
- Payesh in Bengali is the same as Kheer in North India or Rice Pudding internationally.
- Chanar Payesh is unique because it uses chana (cottage cheese/paneer) along with rice and milk, making it rich and creamy.
- Nolen Gur is a special jaggery from Bengal, made from date palm sap, which gives this dessert its authentic aroma and golden color.
This dessert is often prepared during festivals like Durga Puja, Makar Sankranti, or family celebrations. Its earthy sweetness and soft texture make it stand out among other kheer variations.
2. Why This Dessert is Special
- Bengali Twist on Kheer: Unlike regular kheer, this recipe uses fresh cottage cheese (chana).
- Jaggery Instead of Sugar: Nolen gur adds a caramel-like flavor.
- Festive & Nutritious: Loaded with calcium, protein, and natural sweetness.
- Unique Aroma: The combination of date palm jaggery and cardamom makes it irresistible.
3. Ingredients for Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh
This recipe serves 4–6 people:
- Full cream milk: 1 liter (4 cups)
- Small-grain rice (Gobindobhog or basmati alternative): ¼ cup
- Nolen gur (date palm jaggery): ½ cup (adjust sweetness to taste)
- Fresh chana (cottage cheese/paneer): ½ cup, crumbled
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons (optional, only if jaggery is less sweet)
- Cardamom powder: ½ teaspoon
- Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios): 2 tablespoons
- Raisins: 1 tablespoon
- Ghee: 1 teaspoon
Tip: If Nolen gur is unavailable, you can use regular jaggery, but the aroma of authentic Bengali payesh comes only from Nolen gur.
4. Step‑by‑Step Recipe – Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh (Bengali Kheer)
Step 1: Prepare the Cottage Cheese (Chana)
- Boil ½ liter milk and curdle it using 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.
- Strain through a muslin cloth and wash with water to remove sourness.
- Squeeze gently and set aside to drain for 30 minutes.
- Crumble lightly to make soft chana.
(This step is optional if you are using ready‑made fresh paneer.)
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- In a thick‑bottomed pan or clay pot, add 1 liter milk and bring it to boil.
- Wash and add ¼ cup rice.
- Cook on low flame for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The milk will reduce to half and rice will become soft and creamy.
Note: This is the kheer base, the same method used for classic rice pudding.
Step 3: Add Chana and Simmer
- Once rice is soft, add crumbled chana (cottage cheese).
- Stir gently and cook for 5–7 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add cardamom powder for aroma.
Step 4: Sweeten with Nolen Gur
- Turn off the heat before adding jaggery to prevent milk curdling.
- Dissolve ½ cup jaggery in 2 tablespoons warm milk or water.
- Slowly mix into the payesh and stir gently.
- Optional: Add 2 tbsp sugar if you prefer extra sweetness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add roasted cashews, chopped almonds, and raisins in ghee for extra flavor.
- Garnish the payesh with nuts and a drizzle of melted jaggery.
- Serve warm in winter or chilled in summer for a delightful dessert experience.
5. Pro Tips for Perfect Bengali Payesh
- Always turn off the heat before adding jaggery to avoid curdling.
- Use small-grain rice for authentic creamy texture.
- Clay pot serving enhances aroma like traditional kheer.
- Add jaggery gradually to adjust sweetness.
6. Variations to Try
- Coconut Chanar Payesh: Add ½ cup grated coconut for richness.
- Dry Fruit Loaded Payesh: Add more nuts, dates, and figs.
- Smoked Payesh: Some Bengalis give a charcoal smoke effect for unique aroma.
- Modern Twist: Serve chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
7. Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: 9 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Calcium & Iron: High
8. Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm during festivals for a cozy traditional feel.
- Chill for 2–3 hours and serve as a summer dessert.
- Garnish with silver leaf (varq) for a royal festive look.
9. Why Kheer & Payesh Are Loved Across India
Even though payesh is a Bengali dessert, it is a type of kheer loved all over India. Kheer symbolizes:
- Festivity and celebrations
- Warm family gatherings
- Rich, traditional flavors with a creamy texture
In 2025, adding authentic ingredients like nolen gur and cottage cheese brings an artisanal touch to the age-old kheer recipe.FAQs – Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh (Bengali Kheer Recipe)
1. What is Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh?
Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh is a traditional Bengali kheer recipe made with rice, milk, crumbled cottage cheese (chana), and Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery). It is creamy, aromatic, and often served during festivals like Durga Puja and Makar Sankranti.
2. Is Payesh the same as Kheer?
Yes, Payesh is the Bengali name for Kheer, which is also called Rice Pudding in English.
- Payesh: Bengal
- Kheer: North India & Pakistan
- Rice Pudding: International term
All are milk‑based rice desserts, but Payesh often uses jaggery for a unique flavor.
3. Can I make Chanar Payesh without Nolen Gur?
Yes! If you don’t have Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery), you can use:
- Regular jaggery
- Brown sugar
- Coconut sugar
However, the authentic aroma of Bengali Payesh comes only from Nolen Gur.
4. Why is my milk curdling when I add jaggery?
Milk curdles because jaggery is added on high heat. To avoid this:
- Turn off the heat before adding jaggery.
- Dissolve jaggery in warm water or milk first.
- Then mix slowly into the payesh.
5. Can I make this dessert in advance?
Absolutely!
- Room Temperature: 3–4 hours
- Refrigerated: Up to 2–3 days
Tip: Add jaggery after cooling if you plan to store it longer.
6. What type of rice is best for Chanar Payesh?
- Bengali Gobindobhog rice is ideal for authentic texture.
- Alternative: Short‑grain rice or even basmati (washed and soaked).
Short‑grain rice makes the payesh creamier, just like traditional kheer.
7. Is Chanar Payesh healthy?
Yes, it is a nutritious dessert:
- Protein: From milk & cottage cheese
- Minerals: Calcium & iron from milk & jaggery
- Natural Sweetener: Jaggery is healthier than refined sugar
8. Can I serve Chanar Payesh hot or cold?
Yes, this Bengali kheer can be enjoyed both ways:
- Warm: Cozy and comforting in winter.
- Chilled: Refreshing summer dessert.
9. Can I add other flavors to this kheer?
Yes! Try:
- Rose water or kewra water for floral aroma
- Grated coconut for South‑Indian twist
- Saffron strands for royal flavor and color
10. What occasions are best to serve Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh?
This festive dessert is popular during:
- Durga Puja
- Makar Sankranti
- Weddings and family gatherings
- Or anytime you crave a rich, creamy kheer!
11. Healthy Tips for Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh (Bengali Kheer)
If you love desserts but want to enjoy them without guilt, here are some healthy tips to make your Bengali kheer more nutritious and digestive‑friendly.
1. Use Low‑Fat or Plant‑Based Milk
- To reduce calories, use skimmed milk or almond milk instead of full‑cream milk.
- Vegan option: Almond milk or oat milk also gives a creamy texture without dairy.
2. Replace Refined Sugar with Jaggery
- Nolen Gur (Date Palm Jaggery) is already a healthier alternative because:
- It contains iron, calcium, and magnesium
- It has a lower glycemic index than white sugar
- Tip: For diabetic‑friendly versions, add coconut sugar or stevia in moderation.
3. Add Nuts & Dry Fruits in Moderation
- Cashews, almonds, pistachios, and raisins are packed with protein and healthy fats.
- Tip: If you are on a weight‑control diet, use unsalted nuts and keep portions small.
4. Practice Portion Control
- Payesh is calorie‑dense, so a ½ cup serving is enough for dessert.
- Serve smaller portions during festive occasions to enjoy without overindulging.
5. Make It Digestive‑Friendly
- Cardamom and saffron improve digestion and reduce bloating.
- Adding just 1 teaspoon of ghee enhances flavor and aids digestion.
6. Boost Nutrition with Superfoods
- Add chia seeds or flax seeds for extra fiber and omega‑3 fatty acids.
- Fresh fruit toppings like mango or berries make the dessert more colorful and nutritious.
7. Avoid Overcooking the Milk
- Simmer the milk on low flame to preserve nutrients.
- Avoid high heat, as it can burn the milk and reduce its vitamin content.
These healthy tips make Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh not only delicious and festive but also more balanced and guilt‑free for health‑conscious dessert lovers.
12. Final Words
Nolen Gurer Chanar Payesh is a true Bengali delicacy that combines the essence of traditional kheer (rice pudding) with cottage cheese and jaggery sweetness. Whether you serve it hot or chilled, its caramel aroma, creamy texture, and nutty flavor will win every heart.
Try this authentic Bengali kheer recipe in 2025 and enjoy the taste of tradition with a modern touch!
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