Kesar Pista Kulfi: A Traditional Indian Frozen Delight
Kesar Pista Kulfi is an incredibly delicious and rich frozen dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Indian sweets. Popular in North India, this kulfi is a dense, creamy, and flavorful treat made with milk, saffron, cardamom, and pistachios. Unlike Western ice cream, kulfi is not whipped, which gives it a more solid and indulgent texture. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, this sweet treat can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: North Indian
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Kesar Pista Kulfi
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 3 liters (2% fat is preferred) |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Saffron strands | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 2 teaspoons (freshly pounded) |
| Pistachios | 1/2 cup (finely chopped) |
Preparation Time: 60 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Freezing Time: 15 hours or more
Instructions for Making Kesar Pista Kulfi
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Condense the Milk:
Start by heating the 3 liters of milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once the milk begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer it with almost continuous stirring. This step is crucial as the milk needs to reduce to more than half its original quantity. During the early stages of condensation, stir the milk frequently. As the milk reduces, the stirring should become more constant, especially once the milk has condensed to less than half its volume. This will prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom or sides of the pan, which could result in a burnt taste and unpleasant odor. -
Add Sweeteners and Flavorings:
Once the milk has reduced to about half of its original volume, stir in the sugar. Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Then, add the freshly pounded cardamom powder and saffron strands to the milk mixture. These ingredients will infuse the kulfi with rich flavors and a beautiful golden color. Stir in the finely chopped pistachios, which add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall taste. -
Cool the Mixture:
Turn off the heat and allow the kulfi mixture to cool completely. It is important to let it cool to room temperature before pouring it into the moulds. -
Fill the Moulds and Freeze:
Once the mixture has cooled, pour it into kulfi moulds until they are about three-quarters full. Seal the moulds tightly to prevent air from entering, and then place them in the freezer. Kesar Pista Kulfi requires a good 15 hours or more to freeze completely, so be sure to plan ahead. -
Serving the Kulfi:
After the kulfi has set and frozen, run the outside of the moulds under warm water for a few seconds. This will help loosen the kulfi from the moulds, making it easier to serve. Gently slide the kulfi out onto a plate, and it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Serving Suggestions:
Kesar Pista Kulfi is an excellent dessert to serve at festivals such as Holi and Diwali, or any Indian celebration. It pairs wonderfully with appetizers like Paneer Tikka or refreshing Chaat items. This dessert is sure to impress guests at any gathering with its rich, indulgent flavor and smooth texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal per serving (depends on portion size) |
| Fat | ~7 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20 g |
| Protein | ~4 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugars | ~16 g |
Tips for the Best Kesar Pista Kulfi:
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Use full-fat milk: For the richest flavor and creamy texture, try to use full-fat milk instead of 2% or skim milk. This will enhance the overall consistency of the kulfi.
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Avoid burning the milk: Always keep the heat low and stir constantly once the milk starts to reduce. If the milk burns, the kulfi will have a bitter taste.
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Add a few drops of rose water or kewra essence to the kulfi mixture for a floral twist. This will elevate the traditional flavors even further.
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Serving Tip: Serve the kulfi in traditional kulfi glasses or any decorative dessert bowls for an authentic presentation.
Kesar Pista Kulfi is a timeless Indian dessert that brings together the aromatic flavors of saffron, cardamom, and pistachios in a smooth, creamy treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a sweet indulgence, this kulfi recipe will surely become a favorite among your family and friends!
