Malai facts for kids

Malai is a special kind of thick cream that comes from the Indian subcontinent. It's very popular in the food of this region, especially for making delicious sweets!

What is Malai?

Malai is a rich, yellowish layer of fat and protein that forms on top of milk. It's similar to what some people call "clotted cream." This creamy layer is carefully skimmed off the milk.

How is Malai Made?

Making malai involves a simple but clever process. First, whole milk (milk that hasn't had its fat removed) is heated to about 80 degrees Celsius (180 degrees Fahrenheit) for about an hour. After heating, the milk is cooled down. As it cools, a thick layer of fat and proteins forms on the surface. This layer is then carefully scooped off. Sometimes, this process is repeated to get even more of the creamy malai.

Malai is quite rich, with about 55% butterfat. Many people believe that milk from buffaloes makes the best malai because it naturally has a higher fat content, usually between 5% and 12%. For the best results, buffalo milk is boiled and then cooled to about 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit). Cow's milk, which usually has 3% to 5% fat, can also be used to make malai using a similar boiling and cooling method.

What is Malai Used For?

Ras malai, which are soft cheese balls soaked in sweet malai.

Malai is a key ingredient in many tasty dishes, both savory and sweet.

• Malai Kofta: These are delicious dumplings often made with potatoes and paneer (a type of Indian cheese). They are fried and then served in a rich, creamy malai sauce.
• Malai Pedha: This is a sweet treat made from milk solids and malai, often shaped into small, soft discs.
• Ras Malai: These are soft, spongy balls made from chhena (a fresh cheese similar to paneer) that are soaked in a sweet, creamy malai sauce. They are a very popular dessert.
• Malai Kulfi: Kulfi is a traditional Indian frozen dessert, similar to ice cream. Malai kulfi is a rich and creamy version of this treat.
• Methi Matar Malai: This is a savory dish where malai adds a rich flavor to a curry made with fenugreek leaves (methi) and green peas (matar).

Malai adds a wonderful richness and creamy texture to many Indian and Pakistani dishes, making them even more delicious!