Dairy | Vegetarian

Khoya

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk
Khoya

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine South Asian (Indian)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's milk, Buffalo's milk.

What Is Khoya?

A concentrated milk solid made by slowly simmering full-fat milk until most of the water evaporates, used extensively in Indian sweets.

What Does Khoya Taste Like?

Khoya has a rich, creamy, sweet, milkish, caramelized (if browned) taste with sweet dairy, cooked milk, caramel (if browned) aromas.

Taste
Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Milkish, Caramelized (if browned)
Texture
Soft, Granular, Crumbly, Moist
Aroma
Sweet dairy, Cooked milk, Caramel (if browned)
Acidity
Low

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 30g (1 oz)
Calories380 kcal
Total Fat25g
Saturated Fat15g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol80mg
Protein15g
Total Carbohydrate25g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars25g
Calcium400mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium300mg

Chef’s Secret

For soft, granular khoya, continuously stir full-fat milk over medium-low heat to prevent scorching, ensuring even water evaporation and fine texture.

Khoya Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Khoya is Ricotta Cheese, used at a 1:1 ratio. Similar texture and mild dairy flavor, for moisture.

Substitutes for Khoya with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Ricotta Cheese Best 1:1 Similar texture and mild dairy flavor, for moisture.
Dry Milk Powder + Milk/Cream Mix to paste Best for authentic flavor/texture, requires reconstitution.
Evaporated Milk (Reduced) 1:1 Simmer to thicken, good dairy base, less granular.
Cream Cheese 1:1 Creamy and tangy, for richness in some desserts, not a flavor match.

How to Choose & Store Khoya

  1. Look for fresh, unsweetened khoya at Indian grocery stores.
  2. Can also be made at home from full-fat milk.

What Pairs Well With Khoya?

  • Cardamom
  • Saffron
  • Nuts
  • Sugar
  • Ghee
  • Fruits

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Khoya taste like?

Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Milkish, Caramelized (if browned) Sweet dairy, Cooked milk, Caramel (if browned)

What is a good substitute for Khoya?

The best substitute is Ricotta Cheese (1:1). Similar texture and mild dairy flavor, for moisture.

How do you choose and store Khoya?

Look for fresh, unsweetened khoya at Indian grocery stores. Can also be made at home from full-fat milk.

Related Dairy Ingredients

Need a substitute for Khoya right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.