Gil-E-Firdaus Recipe (Creamy & Sweet Bottlegourd Pudding)
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Hyderabadi
Diet: Vegetarian
Description:
Gil-E-Firdaus is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert that beautifully combines the simplicity of bottle gourd (lauki) with the richness of condensed milk, saffron, and aromatic cardamom. This Hyderabadi sweet is often seen at weddings and family celebrations, delighting guests with its sweet flavor and creamy texture. At first glance, you might not guess that bottle gourd is the key ingredient, but it imparts a subtle texture and freshness that perfectly complements the other ingredients. A delightful medley reminiscent of both Kaddu ki Kheer and Chawal ki Kheer, this pudding is a must-try for anyone wanting to explore authentic Hyderabadi desserts.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 1-1/2 liters |
| Bottle gourd (lauki), grated | 3/4 cup |
| Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls) | 3 tbsp |
| Basmati rice | 1/2 cup |
| Almond meal (Badam Powder) | 3 tbsp |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1/4 tsp |
| Saffron strands | A few |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tbsp |
| Condensed milk | 200 grams |
| Slivered almonds (Badam) | 1/2 tbsp |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Edible silver foil/leaf (Chandi Ka Vark) | 1 sheet |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sago (Sabudana):
Begin by washing and soaking the sabudana in water for about an hour. This ensures the pearls soften, making them perfect for the pudding. -
Prepare the Basmati Rice:
Wash the basmati rice thoroughly with clean water, and then spread it out on a clean muslin cloth. Allow the rice to air dry for about 30-40 minutes under a fan. Once dried, grind the rice into a coarse powder using a grinder. This gives the pudding its creamy base. -
Roast the Almonds:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium flame. Add the slivered almonds and roast them until they turn golden brown. Remove the almonds using a slotted spoon and place them on a kitchen towel to drain any excess oil. -
Cook the Bottle Gourd:
In the same pan with the remaining ghee, add the grated bottle gourd. Saute for 2-3 minutes until the bottle gourd starts releasing its juices. Next, add half of the milk and 1-1/2 cups of water. Allow this mixture to simmer on low heat until the bottle gourd becomes soft and fully cooked. -
Prepare the Rice and Sago Mixture:
In a separate heavy-bottomed pan, pour in the remaining milk. Add the coarsely ground rice along with the soaked sabudana. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning at the bottom. Continue cooking until both the rice and sabudana are completely cooked and the mixture has thickened. -
Combine All Ingredients:
Once the rice-sago mixture is done, add the previously cooked bottle gourd and milk mixture into the pan. Stir gently to combine. Then, add the condensed milk, almond meal, cardamom powder, and vanilla extract. Keep stirring on low heat until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the pudding thickens to a kheer-like consistency. -
Adjust Consistency:
If the pudding becomes too thick, you can add an additional 1/2 cup of milk or water to achieve the desired consistency. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the pudding is ready, turn off the heat. Transfer the Gil-E-Firdaus to a serving bowl and garnish with the roasted slivered almonds and edible silver foil for a luxurious touch. -
Chill and Serve:
Allow the Gil-E-Firdaus to cool down at room temperature, and then refrigerate for a few hours before serving. This dessert tastes best when served chilled, as the flavors meld beautifully when cooled.
Allergen Information:
- Contains: Milk, Almonds
- May Contain Traces of: Gluten (if cross-contamination occurs during preparation)
- Notes: This recipe is vegetarian and dairy-based, so it’s suitable for those following a vegetarian diet. However, those with nut allergies should avoid the almonds or substitute them with a safe alternative.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (provided no cross-contamination occurs)
- Nut-Free: Not unless almonds are omitted or replaced with another ingredient (e.g., coconut flakes).
- Vegan: Not vegan (contains dairy and ghee)
Advice:
Gil-E-Firdaus is an indulgent and exotic dessert that makes an excellent addition to any celebration. While the key ingredient, bottle gourd, may seem unconventional, it adds a unique texture and flavor to the pudding. To enhance the fragrance, use good-quality basmati rice and fresh saffron strands. For a more traditional touch, serve the pudding in small decorative bowls and top with extra edible silver foil for added elegance.
This dessert is perfect for special occasions, and its delicate flavors are sure to impress guests. It pairs beautifully with other Hyderabadi delicacies and can be served alongside dishes like Biryani or Hyderabadi Haleem to make the occasion even more memorable.
Conclusion:
Gil-E-Firdaus is a luxurious and flavorful Hyderabadi dessert that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. The combination of bottle gourd, rice, sago, and almond meal results in a creamy, sweet, and aromatic pudding that is perfect for any festive occasion. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, this pudding is sure to be a hit at your next celebration, offering your guests a sweet experience they wonβt soon forget.
