Saffron Milk Pudding Recipe (Indian Delight)
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Sugar (granulated) | 1/2 cup |
| Custard powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Gelatin | 2 tablespoons |
| Hot water | 4 tablespoons |
| Badam (Almond) – powdered | 2 teaspoons |
| Rose water | 1 teaspoon |
| Kewra essence | A drop |
| Saffron strands | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180-200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~28g |
| Protein | ~4g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Saturated Fat | ~1g |
| Fiber | ~0.5g |
| Sugar | ~20g |
| Sodium | ~50mg |
Instructions
-
Dissolve Gelatin:
Begin by placing the gelatin in a small bowl. Pour the hot water over it and stir well. Allow the gelatin to dissolve completely over a few minutes, ensuring there are no lumps. -
-
Make Custard Paste:
In a separate bowl, take 1/4 cup of milk and add the custard powder. Whisk it vigorously to form a smooth paste, making sure no lumps remain. -
Heat Milk Mixture:
In a saucepan, pour the remaining milk and add the granulated sugar, saffron strands, and powdered almonds. Stir continuously over medium heat. Let it simmer until the sugar dissolves completely and the milk is infused with the rich saffron color and fragrance. -
Combine Custard and Gelatin:
Remove the saucepan from the heat once the sugar has dissolved. Stir in the prepared custard paste and gelatin mixture (ensure the gelatin is stirred again with a fork before adding it). Add the rose water and kewra essence, and stir well to incorporate everything evenly. -
Gentle Heat:
Return the saucepan to the stove and gently heat the mixture for another 2 minutes over low to medium flame. Be careful not to let it boil, as the pudding should remain smooth and creamy. -
Cool and Set:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Once it has cooled a bit, strain the mixture into individual serving bowls or a larger pudding dish to ensure it is free from any curdled milk or lumps. -
Refrigerate:
Let the pudding set at room temperature for at least 1 hour to firm up. Afterward, refrigerate it for a minimum of 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set. -
Serving:
When ready to serve, take the pudding out of the fridge. Use a knife to loosen the edges of the pudding from the sides of the dish. Invert the pudding onto a plate gently. The pudding should come out in one smooth, silky piece. -
Final Touch:
Serve your beautiful Saffron Milk Pudding as a delightful dessert after a festive Indian meal, such as Aloo Gobhi Matar Ki Sabzi, Boondi Raita, and freshly made Puri.
Tips for the Perfect Saffron Milk Pudding:
- Gelatin: Be sure the gelatin dissolves completely in hot water before adding it to the milk mixture to avoid any lumps.
- Custard Paste: Always whisk the custard powder into cold milk first to prevent lumps. If necessary, strain the custard paste into the milk mixture for a smoother texture.
- Chill the Pudding: Allowing the pudding to set for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator ensures it has the perfect creamy, firm texture.
- Flavor Variations: You can add a hint of cardamom powder for extra flavor or decorate the pudding with slivers of pistachios or dried rose petals for an elegant touch.
Serve This Dish With:
For a well-rounded meal, serve this rich, aromatic Saffron Milk Pudding as the grand finale to your festive Indian menu. It pairs perfectly with:
- Aloo Gobhi Matar Ki Sabzi: A comforting spiced potato and cauliflower curry.
- Boondi Raita: A cool, tangy yogurt-based side with crispy boondi.
- Puri: Soft, deep-fried bread that’s perfect for dipping into flavorful curries.
Conclusion
Saffron Milk Pudding is a luxurious and elegant dessert that celebrates the rich flavors of India. With its velvety texture, delicate sweetness, and subtle fragrance of saffron and rose water, this dessert makes for an unforgettable finish to any meal. Whether served at a grand celebration or a cozy family gathering, it is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful golden hue and smooth, creamy taste. Enjoy the essence of Indian cuisine in every bite!
