Basundi (Rabri) Recipe: A Creamy Delight
Basundi, also known as Rabri in many parts of India, is a beloved dessert that holds a special place in Indian festive celebrations. Particularly popular during Kali Chaudas and other small gatherings or parties, this rich and creamy dessert is the epitome of indulgence. With its delicate sweetness, the flavors of cardamom, saffron, and almonds perfectly complement the thickened milk, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether served chilled in the summer or warm in the winter, Basundi is sure to capture hearts.
Cuisine: Gujarati Recipes
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 2 liters |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup (adjust based on sweetness preference) |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Saffron Strands | 2 strands |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 1/4 cup, finely chopped (or pistachios) |
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 45 minutes
Instructions
-
Condense the Milk
Begin by placing the milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring it to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. This initial boiling will begin the reduction process. -
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Add Sugar
Once the milk starts boiling, add the sugar to the pan. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. This ensures that the sweetness is evenly distributed. -
Reduce the Milk
As the milk continues to boil, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer. Stir continuously to prevent the milk from burning. The milk will gradually reduce and thicken, becoming creamier as it condenses. The liquid will reduce to about three-fourths of its original quantity. -
Scrape Down the Cream
During this simmering process, cream will begin to settle on the sides and bottom of the pan. It’s essential to keep scraping down the cream with a spoon and add it back into the simmering milk. This prevents the cream from burning and ensures that your Basundi has that rich, creamy texture. -
Monitor Carefully
As the milk reduces, the final stages require close attention. The milk will become very thick, and there is a risk that it could burn at the bottom of the pan. Stir constantly to prevent this from happening, especially in the last few minutes of cooking. -
Finish Cooking
Once the milk has reduced to about half of its original quantity, turn off the heat. Your Basundi (Rabri) is almost ready! -
Add Flavors and Nuts
Stir in the cardamom powder and the finely chopped almonds (or pistachios) into the condensed milk. These ingredients will infuse the Basundi with aromatic spices and add a delightful crunch. -
Cool and Serve
Transfer the Basundi to a serving dish and let it cool to room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate for 3-4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. You can enjoy it both warm or chilled, depending on the season and your preference.
Tips and Variations
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Sweetness Level: If you prefer a less sweet Basundi, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. This recipe uses 3/4 cup of sugar, but you can reduce it if you prefer a subtler sweetness.
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Add Fruits for Extra Flavor: You can easily transform this classic Basundi into a fruit-infused version. Try adding fruits like lychees or strawberries to create a refreshing Strawberry Rabri or Lychee Rabri. Simply chop the fruits and mix them into the cooled Basundi.
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Serve with Other Desserts: For an extra indulgent treat, serve Basundi as part of an Indian-inspired sundae alongside Badam Elaichi Kulfi (Almond Cardamom Kulfi), Pista Ice Cream, and Falooda.
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Perfect Pairings: Basundi pairs wonderfully with warm Jalebi or Malpua drizzled with Rose and Saffron Syrup. These classic Indian sweets complement the creamy, rich Basundi, making for an unforgettable dessert spread.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Note: This information is approximate and based on standard ingredients)
| Nutrient | Amount (per 1/2 cup serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 26g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Calcium | 200mg |
Conclusion
Basundi (Rabri) is a truly indulgent dessert that is simple to prepare yet brimming with luxurious flavors. Its rich texture, combined with the sweetness of sugar, the warmth of cardamom, and the richness of almonds, makes it a favorite dessert for every occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a festival, hosting a party, or just craving something sweet, Basundi is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy it hot during the colder months or chilled as a refreshing treat on warmer days!
