Some recipes just have that magic touch, the kind that makes everyone gather around the kitchen counter with eager eyes. This Strawberry Sandesh Roulade is one of those. A beloved Rajkumari Naheta special, it is a sweet, beautiful dessert that honestly comes together so easily, you will wonder why you have not been making it all along. Fresh paneer rolled up with juicy strawberries into pretty little swirls, it is as delicious as it sounds.
Here is the thing though: in our home, this roulade never stands a chance. The grandchildren absolutely adore it, and I am not exaggerating when I say it barely makes it to the plate before tiny hands swoop in and it is gone. One minute you are proudly slicing it up, the next you are staring at an empty platter thinking, should have made two. Whether it is a special celebration or just a regular Sunday, this one is guaranteed to steal the show.
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Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Setting Time: 1 hour (in the fridge) | Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
Base (Paneer)
-1 litre full-fat milk
-2 tablespoons lemon juice
-1 tablespoon powdered brown sugar
Filling
-8–10 fresh strawberries, sliced thin
Topping
-2 tablespoons crushed pistachios or mamra almond slivers (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1 : Boil the Milk
Put the milk in a pot and heat it on medium flame. Stir it sometimes so it doesn't stick to the bottom.
Step 2 : Curdle the Milk
Once the milk starts boiling, add lemon juice slowly while stirring. The milk will split into solid bits (paneer) and water. Turn off the heat immediately.
Step 3 : Strain and Cool
Pour everything through a clean cloth or strainer. Wash the paneer under cold tap water to remove the lemon taste. Squeeze out extra water and let it cool down completely.
Step 4 : Mash the Paneer
Take the cooled paneer and mash it really well with your hands or a mixer. Keep mashing until it becomes very smooth like soft dough. This is important to make a perfect roulade without cracks.
Step 5 : Add Powdered Brown Sugar
Add the powdered brown sugar to the mashed paneer and mix it well. The mixture should be smooth and soft, ready to roll out.
Step 6 : Roll Out the Paneer
Place the paneer between two butter papers. Use a rolling pin to roll it into a flat rectangle, about as thick as your finger. Make sure it's even everywhere.
Step 7 : Layer with Strawberries
Cut the fresh strawberries into thin, even slices. Place them all over the paneer sheet, covering it completely. Leave a little space at the edges.
Step 8 : Roll It Up
Starting from one side, gently lift and roll the paneer sheet tightly like a carpet. Press gently while rolling to keep the strawberries inside and make sure it stays together to form a Roulade.
Step 9 : Slice and Chill
Use a knife to cut it into Roulades. Put them on a plate and place them in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This makes it firm and easy to cut without breaking.
Step 10 : Garnish
Sprinkle crushed pistachios or almond pieces on top of each slice for extra crunch and to make it look pretty. Serve cold.
Variations
- Fruit Toppings : Replace strawberries with sliced mangoes, kiwi, or banana for different flavours.
- Chocolate Roulade : Add cocoa powder to the paneer mixture for a chocolate twist.
- Rose Sandesh : Stir in Edible Rose Water and garnish with dried rose petals.
- Nut Filling : Mix crushed cashews, almonds, or pistachios into the paneer for a nutty version.
- Saffron Sandesh : Add a pinch of Mongra Saffron strands to the paneer for a festive touch.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as the centrepiece dessert for every celebration.
- Garnish with edible silver leaf (varak) for a traditional festive look.
- Present on a platter with extra fresh strawberries around the slices.
Zama Tip
Always let the roulade rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing. This not only helps it set properly but also allows the paneer to firm up just enough to hold the strawberries in place. Patience here makes all the difference between a beautiful presentation and a crumbled mess.
FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought paneer instead of making fresh paneer?
Yes. You can use our A2 high-protein paneer, which is fresh and soft. Crumble it well and mash until smooth before using.
2. What if I don't have powdered brown sugar?
You can use regular powdered sugar, but raw brown sugar is healthier and gives a richer taste.
3. How long can it be stored?
Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture.
4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based milk like almond or soy milk and follow the same curdling process with lemon juice.
