Ras Malai

Ras Malai is a sweet and delectable dessert from India.

The dessert is light and spongy, perfect for those with a sweet-tooth.

Ras Malai can be quite high in sugar and calories.

It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Ras Malai contains calcium and vitamin A from the ricotta cheese.
Cardamom has been linked to supporting digestive health and reducing inflammation.

	1 container whole-milk ricotta cheese
	1/4 cup white sugar
	3 cups half and half
	1 cup white sugar
	1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
	1/2 teaspoon rose water ( optional )
	1 pinch saffron
	1 tablespoon chopped blanched almonds
	2 teaspoons chopped pistachio nuts

1.	Preheat a gas oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2.	In a large bowl, knead the ricotta cheese and 1/4 cup white sugar into a smooth dough.
3.	With a teaspoon, scoop up small portions of the dough and form them into balls.
4.	Place the ricotta balls on a baking sheet.
5.	Bake for 15 minutes until the balls are golden brown.
6.	In a large saucepan, heat the half-and-half and 1 cup white sugar together until the sugar dissolves.
7.	Add the cardamom, rose water (if using), and saffron to the saucepan.
8.	Bring the mixture to a boil.
9.	Add the ricotta balls to the saucepan and turn the heat down to low.
10.	Cook for 10 minutes until the ricotta balls are soft and spongy.
11.	Allow the Ras Malai to cool and refrigerate until ready to serve.
12.	Garnish each serving with chopped almonds and pistachio nuts.