The Orange Sandesh is light and flavourful and is made without sugar or cream, offering a fresh addition to the festive platter for Rakhi celebrations.
To prepare the sweet, 500 ml of milk is heated until hot. Two teaspoons of vinegar are added gradually and stirred gently until the milk curdles and the chhena separates. The chhena is then strained using a muslin cloth, washed well, squeezed to remove excess water and transferred to a mixer.
A quarter cup of milk powder and a quarter cup of a low sweetener of choice are added before the mixture is blended until smooth. It is then transferred to a pan and cooked on low heat, with continuous stirring, until it becomes slightly dry and starts leaving the sides of the pan.
A pinch of saffron or orange food colour can be added optionally before finely grated South African mandarin zest is stirred into the mixture for a fresh citrusy aroma.
After the mixture cools slightly, a small portion is taken and flattened gently. A juicy South African mandarin segment is placed in the centre, after which the mixture is carefully shaped into a ball, sealing the fruit inside. The process is repeated with the remaining mixture and mandarin segments.
The citrus-filled sandesh can then be served as a special mithai for Rakhi, bringing a burst of freshness to every bite. Cloves, pistachios and mint leaves can be used for garnish.
The recipe uses one South African mandarin for stuffing and zest, along with milk, vinegar, milk powder, a low sweetener of choice and optional saffron or orange food colour.
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) represents citrus growers across Southern Africa. For over 120 years, growers have produced premium citrus fruits with a strong focus on quality, sustainability, innovation, nutrition, and preventive health.
Grown under ideal climatic conditions and carefully harvested, these fruits deliver scientifically supported health benefits with every serving. Behind this success are passionate individuals who take pride in agriculture and understand the dedication required to produce world-class fruit - a commitment that truly sets Southern African citrus apart.
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