Make homemade khoya (mawa) in minutes using just ricotta cheese and a microwave! This easy, fuss-free method gives you rich, creamy, slightly grainy khoya, perfect for making Indian sweets like gulab jamun, peda, kalakand, gujiya, and barfi. No lengthy stovetop cooking required!
Transfer the ricotta cheese to a large, deep microwave-safe bowl. Use a bowl with plenty of room, as the mixture may bubble while cooking.
Microwave on HIGH for 3 minutes. Carefully remove and stir well.
Microwave in 2-minute intervals, stirring well after each interval. As the moisture evaporates, the ricotta will become thicker and grainier.
Continue to microwave until most of the moisture has evaporated and the mixture resembles traditional khoya (mawa). This usually takes 10-12 minutes, depending on your microwave and the moisture content of the ricotta.
Stir in ghee, if using, for a richer flavor.
Let the homemade khoya cool completely. It will firm up further as it cools.
Notes
Use whole milk ricotta cheese for the best results.
Always use a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent the mixture from overflowing.
Stirring between intervals helps the ricotta cook evenly and prevents scorching.
Cooking time varies depending on the moisture content of the ricotta and microwave wattage.
Avoid overcooking the ricotta. The khoya will thicken as it cools, so stop cooking when it reaches a thick, grainy consistency.
The finished khoya should be thick, moist, and slightly grainy, not completely dry, similar to homemade paneer.
Use homemade ricotta khoya in gulab jamun, kalakand, peda, gujiya, barfi, and other Indian sweets.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Disclaimer
Nutrition values are my best estimates. If you rely on them for your diet, use your preferred nutrition calculator.