Kesar Shrikhand Recipe – Greek Yogurt Pudding With Saffron
Indulge in the delightful and creamy Kesar Shrikhand, a traditional Gujarati dessert that beautifully blends the rich flavors of saffron with the smooth texture of hung curd (Greek yogurt). This elegant dish not only serves as a refreshing end to any meal but also makes for a stunning centerpiece during festive occasions or dinner parties.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hung Curd (Greek Yogurt) | 2 cups (preferably low fat) |
| Caster Sugar | 1 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Saffron Strands | 6 strands |
| Pistachios (sliced) or Almonds | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Fruits (of your choice) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Varies based on fruit additions |
| Protein | Approx. 5g |
| Fat | Approx. 3g (if using low-fat yogurt) |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 50g |
| Sugar | Approx. 30g |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (mins) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 360 |
| Cooking | 30 |
| Total | 390 |
Instructions
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Strain the Yogurt: Start by pouring the hung curd into a fine sieve or cloth sieve. Set the sieve over a large bowl, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom. Place this setup in the refrigerator for about 5 to 6 hours or overnight. This step helps in straining the excess whey, resulting in thick, creamy yogurt without souring.
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Prepare the Saffron Yogurt: Once the yogurt has fully strained, discard the collected whey. In a new clean bowl, gently rub the saffron strands between your fingers to release their flavor and color, then mix them into the yogurt in the sieve.
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Sweeten and Flavor: Add the caster sugar to the saffron-infused yogurt. Using a large flat spoon, mix vigorously to ensure that the sugar incorporates completely, and the yogurt remains smooth.
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Final Touches: Once well-mixed, transfer the yogurt into a larger bowl, add the cardamom powder, and whisk until evenly blended. Fold in the sliced pistachios or almonds, reserving some for garnish.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for another 5 to 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, dish out the Kesar Shrikhand into serving bowls and top with a selection of fresh fruits such as pomegranate, green grapes, or mangoes for added flavor and visual appeal.
This Kesar Shrikhand is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures, making it the ultimate treat for festive gatherings or a simple family meal. Enjoy the harmonious blend of saffron and cardamom in every creamy bite!
