A delectable sweet dipping sauce
Malai is a cream which originates from the Indian subcontinent, used in cooking desserts or devoured as is with breads. Malai is a labor of love, made by boiling raw whole milk for hours and then letting it cool. The thick layer of fat and proteins left on top is skimmed off and called Malai. It is creamy rich and delectable. Malai is used as an ingredient in making many Indian desserts. It adds a richness and creaminess to many dishes.
The sweet variation is a delectable rich creamy sweet dipping sauce. Only 3 ingredients, no cooking required, and ready in 2 mins. Enjoy dipping breads in it or top desserts and fruits with this rich creamy delight. Malai is not only for sweet dishes, a dollop on many curries can take it to a whole new level. It can take a homestyle dish to an entertaining one to delight your guests. It is also eaten by itself with various breads, typically for breakfast.
Although I love the taste of Malai, like many I don’t love the clotted texture of Malai. I also don’t want to boil milk for hours to get the Malai. So I have created a no cook recipe to get the same taste of Malai, however with a creamy texture instead. Like butter or jam, it is a staple in my fridge, enjoyed with pancakes, bread, croissants, Mandazi or just as a topping on a bowl of berries. My younger daughter loves her pancakes topped with banana slices and drizzled with Malai. My older daughter loves it as a dip for strawberries. I love it sweetened for scooping up with croissants or Mahambri. Replace whipped cream with this treat, its so worth it for your cheat days!
Although (Table) cream is available in the markets in cans and used as a substitute for Malai, I like it thicker and sweetened. my version is versatile and with just 3 ingredients, it can be whipped up in a matter of minutes as you get ready for breakfast. No boiling milk or cooking required. It doesn’t get easier than this!
Makes 4 – 6 servings
Time: 5 mins
Level of difficulty: Easy
Ingredients:
- 6 oz or 1 small can Table Cream
- 1/2 can (aprox 7oz) sweetened condensed milk (adjust to your taste)
- 7.5 oz small container cream cheese (plain or any sweet flavored)
Method:
- In a bowl mix together all the ingredients till its smooth and lump free. This can be done by hand with a whisk or even faster in a blender.
- Can be used immediately though it will be thin in consistency. However, chill in refrigerator overnight to allow it to thicken.
- Enjoy!
Tips:
- Malai should be stored in the refrigerator, for up to a week.
- Optional: add cardamom powder (elaichi) or saffron to give it an even more Indian flavorful.
- Buy flavored cream cheese, like cinnamon or honey nut to take it up a notch.
- Amounts are flexible and can be adjusted to your taste and thickness preference. You can use all in equal amounts to keep it simple. Amounts above match the container sizes as sold.