# Chocolate Sandesh Recipe: A Tasty Bengali Dessert for Festivals and Children’s Gatherings
Bengali desserts are cherished by many, and among these, **sandesh** (or **sondesh**) is a standout favorite. Celebrated for its tender texture and exquisite flavors, sandesh is frequently made during festivals and special events such as Durga Puja and Diwali. One of the most delightful twists on this traditional sweet is **chocolate sandesh**, ideal for serving at kids’ parties or as a festival delight. This article will walk you through the steps to create chocolate sandesh, allowing you to infuse a bit of Bengal into your own kitchen.
## The Heart of Sandesh
Sandesh is a classic Bengali dessert crafted from **chenna**, which is fresh curdled milk. The art of preparing sandesh consists of skillfully shaping the chenna into various forms and flavors, making it a flexible dessert. The inclusion of chocolate in sandesh not only elevates its taste but also makes it enticing for children, making it an excellent option for gatherings.
## Ingredients
To create chocolate sandesh, gather the following ingredients:
– **For the Chenna:**
– 1 liter of full-fat milk
– 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar (for curdling)
– **For the Chocolate Sandesh:**
– 1 cup of fresh chenna (made from the above milk)
– 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar (adjust as preferred)
– 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or melted chocolate
– A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
– Chopped nuts (for garnishing, optional)
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Chenna
1. **Boil the Milk:** In a sturdy pan, bring the full-fat milk to a boil, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
2. **Curdle the Milk:** After the milk reaches a boil, lower the heat and gradually add lemon juice or vinegar while stirring. The milk will curdle, and the whey will separate from the curds.
3. **Strain the Chenna:** When curds have formed, turn off the heat and strain the mixture through a muslin cloth or fine sieve. Rinse the chenna with cold water to eliminate any sourness from the lemon juice or vinegar.
4. **Drain Excess Water:** Gather the cloth and squeeze out as much water as you can. Place a heavy weight on the chenna for around 30 minutes to ensure thorough drainage.
### Step 2: Make the Chocolate Sandesh
1. **Mix Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, blend the drained chenna, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder (or melted chocolate). Combine until all elements are fully mixed.
2. **Knead the Mixture:** Knead the combined ingredients for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable. If using cardamom powder, incorporate it at this stage.
3. **Shape the Sandesh:** Take small portions of the mixture and form them into small discs or your preferred shape. Utilize molds for elaborate designs or shape them by hand.
4. **Garnish:** If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on the sandesh for added flavor and texture.
### Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
After shaping all the sandesh, arrange them on a serving plate. Chocolate sandesh can be enjoyed right away or chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours to enhance the flavors. This sweet delight is bound to please both kids and adults, making it a wonderful addition to any festive occasion or gathering.
## Conclusion
Chocolate sandesh is a delightful variation on the traditional Bengali sweet that merges the richness of chocolate with the soft consistency of chenna. Its ease and adaptability make it a fantastic choice for celebrations and children’s events. By following this recipe, you can prepare a delicious dessert that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also shares with your guests the rich culinary traditions of Bengal. So, gather your ingredients and get set to amaze your family and friends with this scrumptious treat!