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Chenna, often referred to as fresh paneer, is a soft, creamy, and versatile ingredient in Indian cuisine that is the backbone of a variety of traditional dishes. This unripened cheese is made by curdling milk with an acidic substance like lemon juice or vinegar, resulting in a fresh, moist, and crumbly texture. Unlike paneer, which is pressed to remove excess moisture, chenna retains more water, making it more moist and tender.
With its rich history, delicate texture, and adaptable nature, chenna is a must-try ingredient for anyone looking to delve into the depths of Indian cuisine and discover the myriad ways in which this humble cheese can enhance a meal. It is used in iconic Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh.
The versatility of chenna extends far beyond sweets, however, as it plays a vital role in savoury preparations as well. Its ability to absorb flavours, combined with its smooth texture, allows it to shine in a variety of dishes, from curries to savoury snacks. It is commonly used to make savoury treats such as chenna masala and chenna paturi and offers a wide range of possibilities for home cooks to explore. Here are some chenna dishes to try out.
Chenna Poda
Chenna Poda, a delightful chenna-based dish from Odisha, is a must-try for dessert lovers. This caramelised, baked treat is made by combining chenna, sugar, semolina, and cardamom. Its flavour is richly sweet with a hint of smokiness from the caramelised sugar, while the cardamom adds a fragrant twist. Chenna Poda has a moist, dense texture that beautifully balances its creamy and slightly crisp edges, making it a unique and indulgent dessert perfect for home bakers.
Chenna Kheer
Made from chenna (fresh paneer), milk, sugar, and cardamom, it has a smooth, velvety texture with a mild sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the aromatic cardamom. The chenna’s soft, spongy consistency contrasts beautifully with the rich milk base, creating a melt-in-the-mouth experience. Garnished with saffron and slivers of nuts, Chenna Kheer is an indulgent treat that’s both refreshing and irresistibly delicious.
Chenna Kofta Curry
Chenna Kofta Curry is a delightful Indian dish where soft, delicate koftas are made from chenna simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-based gravy. The koftas are seasoned with spices like cardamom, cumin, and green chillies, giving a subtle yet fragrant taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy curry. The texture is melt-in-the-mouth, with the curry's thick consistency enhancing every bite. It’s a must-try at home dish for anyone craving a comforting, flavourful vegetarian option.
Chenna Bhapa
Chenna Bhapa is a Bengali dessert made from fresh chenna mixed with sugar and flavoured with cardamom. It's traditionally steamed, giving it a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The dish is aromatic, with a subtle sweetness and the rich creaminess of chenna. The steam enhances its smoothness while keeping it light. Often garnished with nuts like pistachios or almonds, Chenna Bhapa is a treat for anyone looking to explore authentic Bengali sweets.
Chenna Malpua
Chenna Malpua is a delicious Indian dessert made from fresh chenna, flour, sugar, and cardamom, deep-fried to golden perfection. It has a soft, spongy texture with a slightly crisp outer layer. The sweet syrup drizzled over it adds an extra layer of richness. This dessert is lightly flavoured with cardamom and served warm, making it a delightful treat for special occasions.
Chhena Jhili
Chhena Jhili is again a delicious Odia sweet made from fresh chhena, soaked in sugar syrup. The dough, flavoured with cardamom, is deep-fried until golden brown, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, spongy interior. The syrup enhances its sweetness and gives it a melt-in-your-mouth quality. Chhena Jhili is a perfect balance of rich, creamy texture and delicate sweetness.
