Bengali Mishti Doi
Caramel-sweetened yogurt, set slowly until creamy and tangy.
- Region:
- West Bengal
- Prep:
- 15 min
- Cook:
- 45 min
- Difficulty:
- Medium
Method
- 1
Simmer the milk in a heavy pot, stirring often, until reduced by about one-quarter.
- 2
In a small pan, heat the sugar until it melts and turns amber; do not let it burn.
- 3
Carefully add warm water to the caramel and stir smooth; it may sputter.
- 4
Stir the caramel into the reduced milk and let it cool until just lukewarm.
- 5
Whisk the yogurt starter smooth with a little warm milk, then stir it into the pot.
- 6
Pour into clean earthen or heatproof cups and cover loosely.
- 7
Keep undisturbed in a warm place for 8–12 hours until set; refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
The story behind the dish
Mishti doi is a signature Bengali sweet, known for its caramel hue and pleasantly tart, creamy set. Traditionally, porous earthen pots help absorb moisture and give the yogurt its characteristic texture.