When the scorching heat of summer arrives in India, there’s no better way to cool down than with a creamy and decadent serving of Kulfi. This beloved frozen dessert is a cherished part of Indian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of rich flavors and a refreshing chill. The good news is that you can recreate the magic of Kulfi in your own kitchen with a simple homemade recipe. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to discover the joys of making and savoring this iconic Indian treat.
Ingredients:
- – 2 cups whole milk
- – 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- – 1/2 cup heavy cream
- – 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- – 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, or cashews)
- – 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- – A pinch of saffron strands (soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk)
- – 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for thickening)
Instruction:
- Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- – In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- – Bring the milk to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently. This will reduce the milk and make it thicker.
- – If you want to speed up the thickening process, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with a little milk to make a smooth paste and then add it to the simmering milk. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Add Sweetness and Flavor:
- – Once the milk has thickened, add the sweetened condensed milk and sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- – Add the cardamom powder and saffron-infused milk. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Chopped Nuts:
- – Stir in the chopped nuts of your choice. Traditionally, pistachios, almonds, or cashews are used.
- Cool the Mixture:
- – Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down to room temperature. Make sure it’s not hot when you pour it into molds.
- Pour into Molds:
- – You can use traditional Kulfi molds or small disposable cups. If using cups, insert wooden ice cream sticks into the center of each cup.
- – Carefully pour the cooled Kulfi mixture into the molds or cups.
- Freeze:
- – Place the molds or cups in the freezer and let the Kulfi set for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. – The longer it freezes, the better it will set.
- Serve:
- – To unmold, dip the molds or cups briefly in warm water to loosen the Kulfi. Carefully slide it out onto a plate or serve it directly in the cups.
- – Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a pinch of saffron strands if desired.
- Enjoy:
- – Your homemade Kulfi is ready to be enjoyed! It’s a creamy and flavorful treat that’s perfect for beating the heat.
Homemade Kulfi is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Indian flavors. Feel free to get creative with the nuts and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain or experiment with different toppings, Kulfi is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.