Hyderabadi Double Ka Meetha Recipe (Traditional Indian Bread Pudding)
Description:
Hyderabadi Double Ka Meetha is a cherished traditional Indian dessert hailing from the royal kitchens of Hyderabad. The name ‘Double Ka Meetha’ is derived from ‘Double Roti,’ a British-era term for bread. This decadent bread pudding is made with bread slices soaked in a sweet and creamy mixture of milk, fresh cream, and sugar, flavored delicately with rose water, and garnished with dry fruits and spices. The bread soaks up the syrup and milk mixture, turning soft, flavorful, and indulgent. Serve it after a hearty meal, such as the aromatic Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani and the refreshing Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita.
Cuisine: Hyderabadi
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Brown Bread | 10 slices |
| Milk | 1/2 liter |
| Fresh Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Rose Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 8, blanched and sliced |
| Sultana Raisins | 2 tablespoons |
| Ghee or Oil (for frying) | 1 tablespoon |
For Sugar Syrup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serves: 6-8 people
Instructions
-
Make the Sugar Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and stir the mixture continuously. Bring it to a simmer, allowing tiny bubbles to appear on the surface. This indicates that the syrup is ready. Once the syrup thickens slightly, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool. -
Prepare the Milk and Cream Mixture:
In a deep-bottomed pan, combine 1/2 liter of milk and 1/2 cup of fresh cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Allow the milk to reduce by half, thickening and becoming creamy. This process should take about 10-15 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat. -
Fry the Bread Slices:
Take the whole wheat brown bread slices and cut each slice diagonally into two. Heat ghee (or oil) in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the bread slices until golden brown on both sides, turning occasionally. Once done, remove the slices from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool. -
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a rectangular baking tray with ghee or oil to prevent the bread from sticking. -
Assemble the Dish:
Arrange the fried bread slices in the prepared baking tray, ensuring that the slices fit closely together, covering the entire base of the tray. Once the bread is arranged, pour the condensed milk and cream mixture evenly over the slices. Follow this by adding the cooled sugar syrup and rose water, spreading it out to cover all the bread pieces. -
Allow the Bread to Soak:
Let the bread soak in the liquids for about 5 minutes, so it absorbs the milk, cream, and syrup mixture. -
Add Garnishes:
Sprinkle the sliced almonds and sultana raisins over the bread slices for added texture and flavor. -
Bake the Double Ka Meetha:
Cover the baking tray with aluminum foil and bake the dessert in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the milk mixture has thickened and the bread has absorbed most of the liquids. You should notice that the pudding has a custard-like consistency. -
Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes with the foil still on. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and the dessert to firm up slightly.
Serving Suggestions:
Hyderabadi Double Ka Meetha is a rich, indulgent dessert best served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a savory main course, such as Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani and Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita, to balance the sweetness of the dish. Its rich, creamy texture and aromatic flavors make it an unforgettable end to any meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Sugars | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Hyderabadi Double Ka Meetha is an exceptional dessert that beautifully combines the simplicity of bread with the luxurious richness of milk, cream, and dry fruits. The gentle floral note from rose water elevates the experience, making it a royal treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to leave everyone craving for more!
