The very loved and droolworthy Ras Malai ranks #2 in world’s best cheese desserts list by Taste Atlas
Our Bureau
Kolkata
Ranked second in the world’s best cheese desserts by food guide Taste Atlas, Rasmalai is captivating hearts (and taste buds) around the globe.
According to Wikipedia, Ras malai, also known as rosomalai, or roshmalai, is a dessert originating in the Bengal region of Indian subcontinent. The dessert is called roshmalai/rosmalai in Bengali, ras malai in Hindi, and rasa malei in Odia. It is popular in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Ras malai consists of flattened balls of chena soaked in malai (a type of clotted cream) and is flavoured with cardamom. Milk is boiled and a bit of vinegar or lime juice is added to split it. The whey is discarded and the milk solids are drained, cooled and kneaded into a dough. The dough is divided into small balls and the balls are cooked in hot water with a bit of rose water added. The balls are then cooked in milk with saffron and pistachios.
K.C Das Grandsons, claim that their founder, Krishna Chandra Das invented Rasmalai in the early 20th century. This claim is supported by Food historian KT Achaya, suggesting that Das built upon his father’s creation of Rasgulla (chenna balls) to develop Rasmalai.
However, Bangladesh’s Comilla district throws another twist into the story. The Sen brothers of Matri Bhandar claim to be the original creators, emphasizing their role in popularising and commercializing the dessert. They’ve even applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for ‘Comillar Rosmalai’.
The exact historical details are not well-documented, but Rasmalai is said to be developed around the 19th century. It is closely related to another popular Bengali dessert, Rasgulla.
However, Rasmalai transcends its role as a mere dessert — holding a deep cultural significance in the Indian subcontinent — as it weaves itself into the fabric of South Asian traditions. Rasmalai is served chilled during festivals, get-togethers and weddings in the Indian Sub-continent. Its sweetness symbolizes prosperity and indulgence. Not only this. Its rich, creamy texture and contrasting flavors represent a luxurious treat. Rasmalai becomes a special occasion dessert, reserved for moments of celebration and shared enjoyment.
